Upgraded Charges Filed Against Vance Boelter in Minnesota Lawmaker Shootings

Vance Boelter, a Minnesota man, faces upgraded state and federal charges, including first-degree murder, for allegedly killing a Democratic state lawmaker and wounding another.

Boelter is accused of impersonating a police officer, wearing a uniform and mask, during the alleged politically motivated shootings of lawmakers and their spouses.

Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty upgraded state charges against Boelter, which also include attempted murder, impersonating an officer, and animal cruelty.

Federal prosecutors are also pursuing upgraded charges, with the federal case taking precedence over the state case due to potentially more severe consequences.

Boelter has pleaded not guilty in federal court to the upgraded charges, which could lead to a maximum penalty of life in prison in Minnesota.