An attorney for the alleged Minnesota lawmaker assassin wouldn't tell the Star Tribune whether he intends to pursue a mental health defense.

Acting U.S. Attorney Joseph H. Thompson said the indictment includes a "notice of special findings," which he says is the first step in seeking the death penalty.

In a letter to the FBI director, Boelter wrote that the governor had instructed him to kill two U.S. senators, officials said.

The daughter of state Rep. John Hoffman issued a statement following a federal indictment against the accused assassin.

Vance Boelter plans to plead not guilty to charges he killed former House Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband after wounding Rep. John Hoffman and his wife, his attorney said.

Federal prosecutors on Tuesday are expected to a grand jury indictment against Vance Boelter, the man accused of shooting two Minnesota state lawmakers and their spouses.

The indictment handed up lists murder, stalking and firearms charges against Vance Boelter, and could carry the federal death penalty.

Acting U.S. Attorney Joseph H. Thompson said the indictment includes a "notice of special findings," which he says is the first step in seeking the death penalty.

Alleged assassin Vance Boelter has obtained an out-of-state public defender to serve as co-counsel in his federal court case, days after he was formally indicted in the shootings of two Minnesota politicians and their spouses.