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Man Charged in Minnesota Lawmaker Killings Disguised as Officer, Experts Urge Door Verification

Authorities recommend calling 911 before opening to confirm any officer’s identity without a valid warrant.

A police car at night.
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Overview

  • Vance Boelter faces state charges of first-degree murder and federal counts of stalking and firearms violations after he posed as a police officer to kill Rep. Melissa Hortman and her husband.
  • Boelter’s SUV displayed a fake “POLICE” license plate and flashing emergency lights when he opened fire on Sen. John Hoffman and his wife, wounding them.
  • Legal analysts emphasize that residents have no obligation to admit police unless officers present a warrant signed by a judge or cite an emergency inside.
  • The American Civil Liberties Union advises speaking through a closed door, requesting official identification and inspecting any warrant through a window or under the door.
  • Richfield Police and other agencies instruct homeowners to call 911 to verify an officer’s credentials before responding to unexpected knocks.