New York City, CNN – Even for a procedural court hearing, Luigi Mangione, the 26-year-old accused of killing UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, managed to attract a massive crowd of supporters at the Manhattan Criminal Court on Friday. Despite the bitter cold, fans lined up for hours outside the courthouse, many wearing “Free Luigi” apparel and waving signs with slogans such as “Healthcare is a Human Right.”
One attendee told CNN she had arrived at the courthouse as early as 5 a.m. to witness the brief proceedings. Posters depicting major healthcare executives with the word “WANTED” emblazoned across them were also spotted near the courtroom, highlighting the charged political atmosphere surrounding the case.
Courtroom Proceedings and Mangione’s Appearance
Mangione, escorted into the courtroom with his hands and ankles shackled, wore a bulletproof vest over a green sweater—matching many of his supporters in and outside the courthouse. A request from his defense attorney to remove the shackles was denied by Judge Gregory Carro.
Mangione has pleaded not guilty to state charges and has yet to enter a plea on federal murder charges. The state charges stem from the December 4 killing of Brian Thompson, who was shot while walking toward the venue hosting UnitedHealthcare’s annual investor conference in Midtown Manhattan.
Friday’s hearing, though procedural, drew significant attention. Prosecutors reviewed evidence turned over to the defense, including police body camera footage, surveillance videos, forensic reports, and phone data. Judge Carro scheduled Mangione’s next hearing for June 26 and set deadlines for legal motions, despite objections from his defense team.
Legal Complexities and Defense Concerns
Mangione faces multiple charges across three jurisdictions—federal charges, New York state charges, and Pennsylvania charges. His defense attorney, Karen Friedman Agnifilo, raised concerns about potential constitutional violations, particularly regarding the seizure of Mangione’s belongings at the time of his arrest. She suggested that some evidence could be suppressed due to improper search procedures.
Agnifilo also pointed to an HBO documentary in which New York City Mayor Eric Adams allegedly discussed evidence not yet shared with the defense. She emphasized the need for full access to discovery materials before submitting legal motions.
Public Support and ‘Free Luigi’ Movement
The hearing underscored the growing public support for Mangione, with demonstrators chanting and showcasing solidarity through clothing and banners. Many supporters view the case as emblematic of broader frustrations with the American healthcare system.
Inside the courthouse, young attendees packed the hallway, hoping to secure a seat. Notably, Chelsea Manning, the former U.S. Army soldier and whistleblower, was among the attendees. The day before the hearing, an anonymous activist group projected an image of Mangione onto a New York City building with the words “Free Luigi,” emphasizing the right to a fair trial.
Despite the outpouring of support, political figures have condemned any glorification of Mangione’s actions. Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro stated unequivocally, “In America, we do not kill people in cold blood to resolve policy differences or express a viewpoint.”
Mangione’s Statement from Prison
Last week, Mangione released his first public statement from prison via a website linked to his attorneys. In the statement, he expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support, noting that letters from around the world have transcended political, racial, and class divisions. While he acknowledged that he could not reply to most letters, he assured supporters that he reads every one.
The website aims to keep the public informed about Mangione’s legal proceedings as his high-profile case continues.
Weeklong Manhunt and Arrest in Pennsylvania
Mangione’s arrest followed a weeklong manhunt, during which police combed New York’s Central Park for clues and circulated surveillance footage of the suspect fleeing on a bicycle. Authorities ultimately captured him at a Pennsylvania McDonald’s after a worker and customer recognized him and contacted the police.
Upon his arrest, investigators recovered a fake ID, a firearm believed to be the murder weapon, and a handwritten “claim of responsibility.” Initially taken into federal custody, Mangione is now being held at a federal detention center in Brooklyn as his state trial moves forward.
Rare First-Degree Murder Charge in New York
Murder in the first degree is rarely charged in New York, as it requires specific aggravating factors. In Mangione’s case, prosecutors argue that the killing was an act of terrorism meant to intimidate the public. If convicted, he faces life imprisonment without parole.
District Attorney Alvin Bragg described the crime as a “frightening, well-planned, targeted murder” intended to generate public outrage and fear.
Federal Charges and Possible Death Penalty
In addition to state charges, Mangione faces federal charges of murder using a firearm, stalking, and other offenses. His next federal court hearing is set for March 19.
Authorities cite Mangione’s notebook entries as key evidence. One entry, dated August 15, allegedly states: “The details are finally coming together. I’m glad – in a way – that I’ve procrastinated,” suggesting premeditation. Prosecutors argue that the notebook details his careful tracking of the victim’s movements before the attack.
Although the Justice Department has not yet decided whether to pursue the death penalty, the case meets the criteria for capital punishment under federal law. Mangione has enlisted Avraham Moskowitz, an attorney with extensive experience in death penalty cases, as part of his legal team.
As Mangione’s trial progresses, his case continues to spark intense debate about justice, corporate power, and the healthcare industry’s role in society.
