A federal judge in New York dismissed the death-penalty-eligible charges against Luigi Mangione, who is accused of stalking and murdering UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson in December 2024.
Judge Margaret Garnett ruled that stalking does not qualify as a “crime of violence” under federal law and thus cannot serve as a basis for the death penalty, despite acknowledging the violent nature of the crime.
Driving the news: Mangione previously pleaded not guilty to state and federal charges and returned to court after the ruling, with his supporters expressing relief in the courthouse.
What we’re watching: The U.S. Attorney’s office was given until February 27 to decide whether to appeal the ruling.
- Judge Garnett scheduled Mangione’s trial to begin September 8, with jury selection and opening statements set for October 12, and anticipates screening up to 400 potential jurors.
The big picture: The judge rejected the defense’s request to exclude evidence from Mangione’s backpack, including the alleged murder weapon, found during his apprehension in Altoona, Pennsylvania, citing multiple search warrant exceptions.
- The judge indicated she would keep to her trial schedule unless directed otherwise, and was not swayed by a Manhattan district attorney’s efforts to try Mangione sooner in state court.
