Vance Boelter sentenced to two life terms plus 40 years for Minnesota political murders

Vance Boelter, 59, was sentenced in federal court in Minneapolis to two consecutive life sentences and an additional 40 years for the June 2025 attacks that killed former Minnesota House Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband Mark, and seriously wounded state Senator John Hoffman and his wife Yvette. Boelter pleaded guilty in June to six federal charges, including two counts of murder, two counts of stalking and two firearm offenses, after a plea agreement removed the death penalty. He carried out the attacks while disguised as a police officer, using a tactical uniform and a silicone mask to gain entry to the victims’ homes. During sentencing, U.S. District Judge John R. Tunheim said it was “the longest sentence I have imposed” and noted the crimes were “an assault on democracy.” Victims’ families described the lasting trauma, and federal prosecutors called the case “among the most horrific ever prosecuted.” In response, Minnesota lawmakers passed a new law making impersonating a police officer a felony, with maximum penalties of two years in prison, later increased to five years when combined with other crimes. The case has prompted renewed discussion on political violence and security for elected officials.