In a dramatic courtroom appearance on Friday, Luigi Mangione, a 26-year-old man accused of murdering UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, pleaded not guilty to all federal charges against him. Mangione, who appeared in a beige prison jumpsuit and was shackled at the wrists and ankles, made his plea in Manhattan federal court, facing a serious charge of murder, for which the Justice Department has indicated it will seek the death penalty. He is also charged with two counts of stalking and a firearms offense.
The court proceedings come shortly after a federal grand jury indicted Mangione on four charges related to the fatal shooting of Thompson on December 4. The targeted shooting occurred as Thompson was en route to a UnitedHealthcare investors’ conference in New York, igniting a wave of support for Mangione from individuals frustrated with the American for-profit health care system.
During Mangione's last court appearance in February, a significant number of supporters showed up, many wearing green to symbolize solidarity with the Nintendo character Luigi. They held signs proclaiming “Free Luigi” and “Health care is a human right,” highlighting the broader issues surrounding healthcare in the United States.
Facing a top federal charge of murder through the use of a firearm, Mangione could potentially be sentenced to death or life imprisonment if convicted. The US Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York has issued a notice indicating their intention to pursue the death penalty, following directives from Attorney General Pam Bondi. Additionally, Mangione faces state-level charges in both New York and Pennsylvania stemming from the shooting and the subsequent week-long manhunt.
In New York, he has pleaded not guilty to state murder and terror charges. Meanwhile, in Pennsylvania, he is confronted with firearm and forgery charges linked to a 3D-printed firearm and a false ID allegedly found in his possession when he was arrested at a McDonald’s in Altoona. Notably, he did not enter a plea in Pennsylvania prior to his extradition back to New York.
Mangione’s attorney has filed multiple motions in Pennsylvania state court aimed at dismissing the charges and suppressing various pieces of evidence if the case proceeds to trial. His legal counsel argues that Mangione was stopped and searched unlawfully, and they have requested that any writings found in his possession not be labeled as a manifesto.
The charges against Mangione stem from the harrowing events of December 4, when Thompson was shot in Midtown Manhattan. Following the shooting, a five-day manhunt ensued, culminating in Mangione’s arrest in Pennsylvania, over 270 miles from the crime scene. Authorities have reported that he was found with the fake ID used by the suspect, the weapon believed to have been used in the murder, and a handwritten note claiming responsibility.
Interestingly, while Mangione was not insured by UnitedHealthcare, at the time of his arrest, he allegedly possessed a notebook expressing “hostility toward the health insurance industry and wealthy executives.” Additionally, three 9mm shell casings recovered from the crime scene bore the words “delay,” “deny,” and “depose,” which are linked to a 2010 book critiquing the tactics employed by the insurance industry.
Support for Mangione has surged among those who perceive the American health insurance system as flawed, overly expensive, and quick to deny coverage. A recent survey by the nonprofit health policy research group KFF revealed that the majority of insured US adults experienced issues with their health insurance within a year, including denied claims. As of April 24, a legal defense fund for Mangione had raised over $900,000, reflecting the widespread public interest in his case.
Sam Beard, a spokesperson for the December 4th Legal Committee, which is fundraising for Mangione, remarked on the growing support, stating, “I think Americans are fed up with the way the health insurance system operates.” In contrast, mainstream politicians have condemned Mangione's actions, labeling them as horrific crimes. Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro emphasized, “In America, we do not kill people in cold blood to resolve policy differences or express a viewpoint.”
The polarizing nature of Mangione's case has drawn significant media attention. In December, his transfer from Pennsylvania to New York was marked by a highly publicized escort involving a jet and a helicopter, which was widely covered by the media. Upon arrival in New York, Mangione was led on a lengthy “perp walk” by heavily armed NYPD officers, an event that included the presence of New York Mayor Eric Adams and NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch.
Critics have accused law enforcement and prosecutors of utilizing the media for sensationalism during Mangione's transfer. His February 21 court hearing attracted numerous supporters despite the cold weather, with many wearing “Free Luigi” gear and chanting slogans both supporting him and criticizing the American healthcare system. Among the attendees was Chelsea Manning, a notable whistleblower.
In a noteworthy fashion choice, Mangione wore a green sweater during the hearing, which prosecutors argued was a deliberate statement by the defense. Prosecutors have further alleged that Mangione's legal team attempted to draw public attention while simultaneously criticizing outside entities for doing the same.
As the case unfolds, the focus remains on the implications of Mangione's actions and the broader issues relating to the American healthcare system that have sparked both outrage and support.
