**Luigi Mangione Pleads Not Guilty to Federal Murder Charges**
Luigi Mangione has entered a not guilty plea to federal murder charges that could result in the death penalty, as he seeks to expedite the proceedings ahead of a related state trial. The 26-year-old is accused of stalking and fatally shooting Brian Thompson, an executive at UnitedHealth Group Inc., outside a Manhattan hotel on December 4. During a hearing in Manhattan on Friday, Mangione, dressed in a tan prison outfit, formally entered his plea.
Previously, Mangione had pleaded not guilty to state murder charges, but federal prosecutors have now brought separate charges that include the possibility of capital punishment. This arraignment follows the recent formal indictment against him. U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi has directed federal prosecutors in New York to pursue the death penalty, describing Thompson’s shooting as “a premeditated, cold-blooded assassination.”
At the hearing, Mangione’s defense team argued that the severity of the potential death sentence necessitated prioritizing the federal trial over the state case, which was initially expected to proceed first. U.S. Judge Margaret M. Garnett indicated that she would schedule the federal trial as if it were the only case, addressing any scheduling conflicts as they arise. The judge also cautioned both parties against making public statements that could jeopardize Mangione’s right to a fair trial or complicate jury selection. She specifically instructed the prosecution to relay this warning to key figures, including Jay Clayton, President Donald Trump’s nominee for U.S. Attorney in Manhattan.
Mangione is alleged to have shot Thompson on a Manhattan sidewalk before fleeing, which triggered a manhunt that concluded with his arrest at a McDonald’s in Altoona, Pennsylvania. Authorities discovered a manifesto criticizing the healthcare industry and a notebook discussing plans to kill a CEO during his arrest. The shocking nature of the shooting, which was captured on security video, has garnered national attention. The footage shows the shooter, wearing a backpack and hooded jacket, approaching Thompson from behind and using a 3-D printed ghost gun.
Judge Garnett has given prosecutors 30 days to provide evidence to Mangione’s defense team, including emails, social media accounts, phone records, and a substantial amount of evidence collected by state prosecutors. A court conference is scheduled for December, where the judge will determine the trial date for Mangione in 2026. Following the brief court session, over 100 supporters and onlookers gathered outside the courthouse, reflecting the public interest in this high-profile case.
**FAQ**
**What are the charges against Luigi Mangione?**
Luigi Mangione faces federal murder charges, including stalking and shooting Brian Thompson, which could lead to the death penalty.
