Accused Shooter of Minnesota Lawmakers Appears in Court
The individual charged with shooting two Minnesota legislators and their spouses last month was in court on Thursday, seeking specific accommodations while in custody during the legal process.
Vance Belter, 57, requested that the prison regulate the lights in his cell, asking for them not to be on continuously. Additionally, he wanted a pencil to take notes. It’s not clear yet if his requests will be approved, but the judge indicated that the prison would address them.
Belter is accused of the fatal shootings of Senator John Hoffman and his wife, Senator Yvette, around 2 a.m. on June 14. He allegedly went on to kill former Senator Melissa Hortman and her husband Mark a short time later, at roughly 3:30 a.m. The incidents took place in Brooklyn Park, as well as at Champlin’s home.
Allegations also suggest that Belter operated an SUV equipped with a flashing emergency light and a license plate reading “Police.”
During the court appearance, he wore the yellow jumpsuit typical of Sherburne County Jail, along with issued slippers, and he carried Manila envelopes with him.
His public defense attorney mentioned that the prosecution had agreed to share some evidence and that they would proceed with the planned detention hearing. When asked if he waived his right to a preliminary hearing, Belter expressed a desire to see the facts surrounding the events of June 14 come to light for everyone.
Details about the next court date are still pending, as the case requires further action from a major judge. The judge has formally listed the charges following Belter’s arrest on June 15, giving a 30-day window for prosecution.
Belter is facing serious charges: two counts of stalking, two counts of murder, and two firearm-related offenses in federal court, along with additional second-degree murder charges at the state level.
U.S. Attorney Joseph H. Thompson stated that Belter’s primary motive appeared to be “to go out and kill people,” following his capture after a two-day manhunt.
