No New Developments in Vance Boelter Case as Indictment Looms

Lead No court proceedings or filings occurred Friday in the case of Vance Boelter, the suspect in the June 14 shootings of two Minnesota lawmakers and their spouses, as authorities await a federal grand jury indictment due by mid-July.

Nut Graf With no scheduled hearings or motions on September 10, the focus remains on the pending six-count federal indictment that could include the death-penalty notice. Boelter continues to be held without bail at Sherburne County Jail, and prosecutors are preparing for arraignment once the grand jury returns its decision.

Court Status

  • Boelter made his last court appearance in early July, waiving detention and probable-cause hearings to expedite the case’s progression.
  • His arraignment, where he will enter a plea, remains pending the grand jury’s mid-July deadline.
  • Boelter continues to contest harsh jail conditions and sleep deprivation, but no new motions were filed Friday.

Investigation and Next Steps

  • Acting U.S. Attorney Joe Thompson has emphasized the political nature of the attacks and confirmed the Justice Department’s intent to bring federal charges before state prosecution.
  • Prosecutors have broad evidence, including surveillance footage, victim statements, tactical gear found in Boelter’s vehicle, the hit list of 45 targets and flyers for “No Kings” protests.
  • Once indicted, Boelter will be arraigned in federal court. If he pleads not guilty, pretrial motions and discovery will follow, potentially including a hearing on any death-penalty notice.

Background of Attacks

  • In the early hours of June 14, Boelter allegedly posed as a police officer to attack Senator John Hoffman and his wife in Champlin, and later former House Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband in Brooklyn Park.
  • The assaults killed Hortman and her husband and seriously wounded the Hoffmans; their golden retriever was euthanized after being shot.
  • Boelter surrendered late June 15 after a 40-hour manhunt described as the largest in Minnesota history.

Public and Political Reactions

  • Gov. Tim Walz and congressional leaders have condemned the attempted political assassinations and called for safeguarding elected officials.

  • Vigils and memorials for the victims continue in Minnesota communities, underscoring ongoing public concern over political violence.

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