Luigi Mangione, the 26-year-old accused of assassinating UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, has filed a legal motion alleging that his arrest and subsequent search by Pennsylvania police violated his constitutional rights.
Allegations of Constitutional Violations
In the recent filing, Mangione’s defense attorney, Thomas Dickey, asserts that officers in Altoona, Pennsylvania, failed to administer Miranda warnings during Mangione’s detention on December 9, 2024. Dickey contends that law enforcement lacked a valid reason for the initial stop, stating that officers cited Mangione’s prolonged presence and suspicious demeanor at a McDonald’s restaurant as justification. The defense argues that these reasons were insufficient for detention and that Mangione was interrogated for 15 minutes before being informed of any investigation, during which he declined to speak without legal representation.
Discovery of Incriminating Evidence
Upon arrest, authorities reportedly discovered a notebook in Mangione’s possession containing references to targeting “the CEO at the annual parasitic bean-counter convention,” allegedly alluding to Thompson. Additionally, a 9mm homemade firearm, a manifesto criticizing Thompson’s prioritization of profit over patients, and a counterfeit New Jersey identification card matching one used by a person of interest at a Manhattan hostel were allegedly found in Mangione’s backpack.
Current Legal Status
Mangione has been extradited to New York, facing both state and federal charges, including murder and terrorism. The federal charges carry the possibility of the death penalty. Mangione maintains his innocence, having pleaded not guilty to all accusations.
Public Reaction and Support
Despite the severity of the charges, Mangione has garnered significant public attention, receiving substantial financial contributions for his legal defense and numerous messages of support.
The court has yet to rule on the admissibility of the evidence obtained during Mangione’s arrest, a decision that could profoundly impact the progression of the case.