NEW YORK, USA — Luigi Mangione pleaded not guilty on Monday, December 23, 2024 to New York state charges stemming from the killing of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, as his defense team criticised the highly publicised handling of his custody transfers, calling them “perfectly choreographed, utterly political.”
Mangione appeared in Manhattan Supreme Court before Justice Gregory Carro, wearing a white shirt, a maroon sweater, and light-coloured pants.
The 11-count indictment against him includes charges of first-degree murder, an act of terrorism, criminal possession of a weapon, and forgery for allegedly using a fake ID before the December 4 slaying.
A Short Arraignment
The arraignment was brief, with Mangione pleading not guilty to all charges.
He appeared engaged with his defense team, which includes attorney Karen Agnifilo and prison consultant Craig Rothfeld, who specialises in confinement matters.
Justice Carro ordered Mangione to remain in custody, setting bail at $1, a procedural formality given Mangione’s detention in federal custody without bail at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn.
Defense Criticises High-Profile “Perp Walks”
Agnifilo took aim at the high-profile nature of Mangione’s custody transfers, particularly his televised arrival in New York City last week.
Mangione was transported by helicopter and escorted by heavily armed officers, a spectacle captured by media cameras.
“The mayor should know more than anyone about the presumption of innocence,” Agnifilo said, referencing Mayor Eric Adams, a former NYPD captain. “These public parades of my client are absolutely unnecessary.”
Agnifilo argued the “perp walks” jeopardise Mangione’s right to a fair trial, labelling them “perfectly choreographed, utterly political.”
Background on the Case
Mangione is accused of fatally shooting Thompson in Manhattan earlier this month, an act prosecutors have characterised as a targeted and well-planned murder intended to evoke terror.
The charges against him include state and federal counts, with parallel proceedings expected to unfold in both jurisdictions.
During Monday’s hearing, Mangione’s legal team handled paperwork related to his current federal incarceration.
Public and Legal Reactions
The high-profile nature of Mangione’s case has drawn attention to the intersection of law enforcement practices and media exposure.
Critics, including Agnifilo, argue that the handling of Mangione’s transfers may compromise the integrity of the legal process.
A representative for Mayor Adams was unavailable for comment on Monday regarding the defense’s criticism.
Mangione’s next court appearance is yet to be scheduled as the legal process moves forward, with both state and federal prosecutors preparing their cases.
The charges, if proven, could carry severe penalties, including life imprisonment without parole.
NOW: "Innocent Until Proven Guilty" reads sign as Luigi Mangione supporters SING while gathered for "Fight for Healthcare reform rally and protest" outside NY criminals court at 100 Centre Street.
Video by @yyeeaahhhboiii2 @FreedomNTV [email protected] to license pic.twitter.com/JNqckCvZS7
— Oliya Scootercaster 🛴 (@ScooterCasterNY) December 23, 2024
