NEW YORK, USA — Luigi Mangione, accused of fatally shooting UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson outside a Midtown Manhattan hotel, has retained prominent New York attorney Karen Friedman Agnifilo to represent him as he faces second-degree murder charges.
Friedman Agnifilo, a seasoned litigator and former chief assistant district attorney in Manhattan under Cyrus Vance Jr., has deep experience in the New York City criminal justice system.
Known for her extensive network and knowledge of state courts, she transitioned to private practice in 2021 after seven years in the Manhattan DA’s office.
“She’s got as much experience as any human being, especially in the state court,” a longtime New York prosecutor is quoted by CNN.
“She knows every corridor, every judge, every clerk in the courthouse.”
Friedman Agnifilo has declined to comment on the case or disclose who is financing Mangione’s legal defence.
Mounting Evidence
Mangione, who is currently in custody in Pennsylvania, is accused of gunning down the insurance industry CEO, Thompson, on December 4 near a Hilton Hotel in Manhattan.
Investigators allege that a 3D-printed gun found in Mangione’s possession matches the shell casings at the crime scene.
Additionally, Mangione’s fingerprints were found on items near the site of the shooting.
The 26-year-old suspect has denied involvement through his Pennsylvania attorney, Thomas Dickey, who stated Mangione plans to plead not guilty to the murder charge in New York, as well as related gun and forgery charges in Pennsylvania.
Extradition Pending
Mangione remains at the Huntingdon State Correctional Institution in Pennsylvania on gun-related charges as he fights extradition to New York.
While he has 14 days to file a writ of habeas corpus challenging his detention, indications from Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg suggest Mangione may waive extradition next week.
If Mangione does not waive extradition, Pennsylvania prosecutors have 30 days to secure a governor’s warrant, with New York Gov. Kathy Hochul and Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro both prepared to expedite the process.
RELATED: Luigi Mangione’s Manifesto: A Stark Reflection on America’s Healthcare System
Motive and Manifesto
According to an NYPD intelligence report, investigators are examining Mangione’s alleged motive, which appears to stem from anger toward the health insurance industry and corporate greed.
A handwritten manifesto found on Mangione during his arrest reportedly outlines his grievances, characterising the killing as a symbolic challenge to corporate corruption.
“He appeared to view the targeted killing of the company’s highest-ranking representative as a symbolic takedown,” the NYPD report states, citing the manifesto’s assertion that Mangione is “the first to face it with such brutal honesty.”
Authorities are also reviewing additional writings found in a spiral notebook linked to Mangione, as they work to build their case against him in the killing of the UnitedHealthcare CEO.
Complex Legal Battles
Mangione faces multiple charges in Pennsylvania, including forging documents and illegal firearm possession.
Pennsylvania state Judge Dave Consiglio denied him bail on Tuesday, ensuring his detention while extradition proceedings are resolved.
Dickey has not clarified whether Mangione’s prominent family in Baltimore is covering his legal expenses, though he noted that members of the public have offered financial support.
A representative for Friedman Agnifilo also declined to comment on the matter.
National Implications
The high-profile case has drawn significant attention as it implicates issues of corporate accountability, mental health, and the use of untraceable 3D-printed firearms.
With Mangione’s trial in New York still pending, it remains to be seen how the case will unfold.
Blair County District Attorney Peter Weeks has pledged full cooperation to return Mangione to New York, stating, “We are prepared to do what’s necessary to see justice served.”
Mangione’s next court appearance in Pennsylvania is expected in the coming weeks, as the legal process moves forward in both states.
