“Included within the reach of the terrorism statute.” This legal phrase became the central argument in a Manhattan courtroom on Tuesday, where a judge delivered a significant ruling that reshapes the high-profile case against Luigi Mangione, the man accused of killing UnitedHealthcare executive Brian Thompson. The rejection of two terrorism-related counts is a turning point in a case that has enthralled and divided the country, even though the 27-year-old still faces the possibility of life in jail.
Who is Luigi Mangione and What is He Accused Of?
Luigi Mangione is accused of the December 4, 2024, killing of Brian Thompson, the former chief executive of UnitedHealth Group’s insurance unit, UnitedHealthcare. Thompson was shot and killed outside a Midtown Manhattan hotel where his company was hosting an investor conference. Mangione was led into the courtroom on Tuesday handcuffed and shackled, wearing tan prison garb, to hear the judge’s decision on the charges against him.
What Charges Were Dismissed and Why?
New York State Justice Gregory Carro dismissed two counts of murder as an act of terrorism. In his decision, Justice Carro ruled that Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg’s office had failed to present enough evidence to the grand jury to prove that Mangione acted with the specific intent required by the terrorism statute. The law requires proving the killer intended to intimidate a civilian population (e.g., health insurance workers) or influence government policy.
Justice Carro wrote, “While there is no doubt that the crime at issue here is not ordinary ‘street crime,’ it does not follow that all non-street crimes were meant to be included within the reach of the terrorism statute.” This distinction means the prosecution did not meet the high legal bar for a terrorism classification under state law.
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What Charges Does Mangione Still Face?
Despite this dismissal, Mangione’s legal peril remains immense. He still faces nine state criminal counts, including:
- Second-Degree Murder: Defined as an intentional killing, which carries a maximum sentence of life in prison.
- Seven Counts of Criminal Possession of a Weapon
- One Count of Possessing a False Identification
A spokesperson for DA Bragg stated, “We respect the court’s decision and will proceed on the remaining nine counts.” Furthermore, Mangione faces a separate federal indictment for the killing, in which the U.S. Justice Department is seeking the death penalty. Tuesday’s dismissal has no impact on that federal case.
Why Does This Case Has Such Strong Public Reaction?
The killing of Brian Thompson occurred in a tense national climate, just days before the politically-motivated assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk in Utah. Although authorities generally denounced both murders, the Mangione case has caused a particular polarization of the populace.
To some, he is a cold-blooded killer. To others, he has become a folk hero and a symbol of rage against a healthcare system perceived as predatory and profit-driven. A small group of supporters gathered outside the courthouse, with one holding an Italian flag inscribed with the words “Healthcare is a human right.” Inside, about two dozen mostly young spectators watched, one wearing a “Free Luigi” t-shirt. This support demonstrates how deeply this case has come to reflect social discontent about healthcare expenses.
Also Read: Luigi Mangione Appears in NYC Court as Terror Charges Dropped in CEO Brian Thompson Murder Case
What Comes Next in the Legal Process?
Justice Gregory Carro set Mangione’s next court date in the state case for December 1. Trial dates have not yet been set for either the state or federal proceedings. Mangione, who has pleaded not guilty to all charges, remains held in federal custody in Brooklyn. The legal battles ahead are expected to be long and complex, playing out on two separate judicial stages.
