Luigi Mangione pleaded not guilty to federal charges including murder, stalking, and a firearms offense in the case of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson’s killing.
The federal grand jury indicted Mangione on four federal charges related to the December 4 murder of Thompson in New York, where the CEO was on his way to a conference.
Driving the news: Mangione’s plea resulted in a prominent display of support from individuals critical of the American health care system, drawing attention and advocacy from his backers.
- The top federal charge of murder through use of a firearm could carry a death penalty or life imprisonment, with the U.S. Attorney’s Office indicating intentions to seek the death penalty.
- Mangione also faces state charges in New York and Pennsylvania related to the shooting, as well as additional firearm and forgery charges connected to his arrest in Pennsylvania.
- Supporters of Mangione have raised over $900,000 for his legal defense fund, reflecting some individuals’ dissatisfaction with the health insurance industry and broader issues with healthcare.
- Public reactions to Mangione’s case have been polarizing, with some condemning his actions as horrific crimes while others perceive him as a symbol of frustration towards the current health care system.
