Vance Boelter, charged with killing former Minnesota House Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband, is due back in federal court. The hearing, delayed due to Boelter's sleep deprivation while on suicide watch, will address his bail status and probable cause. He's not expected to enter a plea yet.
Boelter, wearing a suicide prevention suit, had his hearing postponed after his lawyer cited harsh jail conditions. Boelter claimed he hadn't slept in weeks and denied being suicidal. The Sheriff dismissed the claims.
Boelter faces murder and attempted murder charges in both federal and state court. Authorities say he disguised himself as a police officer and shot Hortman and her husband, and also wounded a state senator and his wife. He was apprehended after a large search.
Boelter's lawyer described his jail conditions as including constant lighting and unsanitary conditions. She argued that better conditions would improve his sleep and communication. The judge granted a delay.
Boelter's lawyers haven't commented on the charges, which could carry the death penalty. Prosecutors allege he targeted other Democratic lawmakers and had a list of potential targets. Friends describe him as an evangelical Christian with conservative views.
Former President Biden and Vice President Harris attended the funeral. Hortman served as speaker from 2019 until January.
5 Comments
Fuerza
Claiming to be sleep-deprived while facing such serious charges is an insult to the victims.
Manolo Noriega
Let’s not forget that focusing on conditions in jails could lead to broader reforms for everyone.
Fuerza
Poor sleep conditions aren't a valid excuse for murder. He should rot in jail.
Ongania
This case is layered, and minimizing the harshness of his treatment won’t help anyone.
Fuerza
Stop with the victim mentality! He made his choices, and now he must face the consequences.