Man Accused of Killing Minnesota Lawmakers Appears in Court Amidst Suicide Watch

Court Hearing for Vance Belter

• ⚖️ Vance Belter, 57, appeared briefly in federal court facing state and federal murder and attempted murder charges.
• 😟 His public defender expressed deep concerns about his conditions on suicide watch at the Sherburn County Jail, citing constant light and unsanitary cell.
• 🗣️ The defense attorney requested a delay in proceedings and Belter's removal from suicide watch.

Remembering the Victims

• 🕊️ Minnesota Representative Melissa Hortman, her husband Mark, and their dog Gilbert were honored at a public lying-in-state ceremony at the Minnesota Capitol.
• 💔 A private funeral service was scheduled for the following day.

Investigation and Belter's Background

• 📱 FBI affidavits reveal Belter had sent a text to his family group chat stating, "prepare for war" and warning of armed individuals coming to their home.
• 🏕️ Belter and his wife were described as "preppers" who had a bailout plan for her to go to her mother's home.
• 💰 Investigators found $10,000 cash, two guns, and passports for the family in the wife's vehicle.
• 🔍 Authorities are still investigating if others, including family members, knew about or assisted in Belter's alleged plot.

Next Steps in the Case

• 🗓️ The judge has delayed further proceedings until July 3rd.