A judge dismissed two criminal counts against Luigi Mangione in a New York courtroom today, significantly reducing the charges he faces for the December killing of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson. The ruling means Mangione will likely only face a second-degree murder charge, rather than the stalking and firearms charges he previously denied.
Supporters gathered outside the courthouse erupted into cheers when the decision was announced. The celebration highlighted the substantial public backing Mangione has received since his arrest for the high-profile shooting outside a Manhattan hotel.
Legal developments
The dismissed charges included terrorism-related counts, with Judge Gregory Carro ruling the evidence was "legally insufficient" according to The Guardian. The judge's written decision removes significant legal jeopardy from Mangione's state-level prosecution.
Mangione's lawyers had argued that the New York state charges and federal charges amounted to double jeopardy. A second-degree murder charge indicates the prosecution believes the killing lacked premeditation, distinguishing it from first-degree murder which requires intent and planning.
Federal case continues
Despite the state charge dismissals, Mangione still faces separate federal charges that could carry the death penalty. The federal prosecution ensures he remains in serious legal jeopardy despite today's courtroom victory.
Supporters have raised over £1.2 million for Mangione's legal defence fund, as reported by the Daily Mail. The substantial financial backing demonstrates the widespread public sympathy for the Ivy League graduate accused of targeting a healthcare executive.
Sources used: "Metro", "The Guardian", "Daily Mail" Note: This article has been edited with the help of Artificial Intelligence.
