Luigi Mangione, the individual accused of killing UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson earlier this month in Manhattan, entered a not guilty plea during his arraignment in a New York State court on Monday, December 23, 2024. The 26-year-old faces eleven state charges, including first-degree murder, second-degree murder as an act of terrorism, and various weapons offenses. A conviction on the most serious charge could result in life imprisonment without parole.
Specifically, Mangione is charged with one count of first-degree murder (a class A-I felony), two counts of second-degree murder (also a class A-I felony), two counts of second-degree criminal possession of a weapon (a class C felony), four counts of third-degree criminal possession of a weapon (a class D felony), one count of fourth-degree criminal possession of a weapon (a class E felony), and one count of second-degree criminal possession of a forged instrument (a class D felony).
Mangione’s lawyer, Karen Friedman Agnifilo, expressed concern over statements made by public figures, including NYC Mayor Eric Adams, arguing they could jeopardize her client's right to a fair trial. She also criticized Mangione's treatment since arriving in New York, describing him as a "human ping pong ball" between jurisdictions and calling the heavy police presence during his transfer the worst "perp walk" she'd witnessed. Agnifilo emphasized her commitment to challenging the charges and upholding her client's presumption of innocence.
Mangione will remain in federal custody pending a transfer arrangement between state and federal authorities. His next court appearance is scheduled for February 21st. As he left the courtroom, Mangione seemingly reacted to media questions with raised eyebrows and a head shake. Demonstrators gathered outside the courthouse, chanting “free Luigi” and carrying signs criticizing the healthcare industry and family court.
Luigi Mangione in New York City Criminal Court. (Rashid Umar Abbasi for Fox News Digital)
Luigi Mangione in New York City Criminal Court. (Rashid Umar Abbasi for Fox News Digital)
Luigi Mangione departing Manhattan Criminal Court. (Adam Gray/Getty Images)
Luigi Mangione in New York City Criminal Court. (Rashid Umar Abbasi for Fox News Digital)
Luigi Mangione in New York City Criminal Court. (Rashid Umar Abbasi for Fox News Digital)
Prosecutors allege Mangione planned his trip to New York, targeting Thompson, who was visiting from Minnesota for a UnitedHealthcare conference. They assert Mangione used a 3D-printed “ghost gun” equipped with a suppressor to shoot Thompson from behind. Thompson had been appointed CEO of UnitedHealthcare in 2021. He is survived by his wife and two children. After the shooting, Mangione reportedly fled to Altoona, Pennsylvania, where he was apprehended five days later at a McDonald's following a tip. He allegedly presented a false identification to police and reportedly became visibly agitated when questioned about his recent presence in New York. Authorities discovered a handwritten document criticizing the healthcare industry, specifically mentioning UnitedHealthcare, though an official motive remains unconfirmed. Public speculation points towards potential grievances held by the suspect against the healthcare and insurance sectors.
Karen Friedman Agnifilo arriving for Mangione’s arraignment. (Rashid Umar Abbasi for Fox News Digital)
