A New York court hearing on Monday examined whether prosecutors can use statements and evidence linked to Luigi Mangione, the 27-year-old accused of fatally shooting UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson in December 2024. Mangione allegedly told a prison guard that he had a 3D-printed gun in his backpack at the time of his arrest—an admission his legal team argues was improperly obtained. Defense lawyers claim Mangione was subjected to an illegal search and questioning without being informed of his rights, while prosecutors maintain the procedures were lawful. Mangione has pleaded not guilty to murder and other charges and also faces a separate federal case in which prosecutors intend to seek the death penalty.
During the hearing, a prison guard testified that Mangione volunteered information about the 3D-printed pistol without being prompted. The defense pushed back, suggesting the guard may have elicited the statement without issuing proper legal warnings. Surveillance footage played in court showed police interacting with Mangione for more than 30 minutes inside a McDonald’s before arresting him—a point the defense believes supports its claims of improper questioning. Additional testimony included a 911 call from a McDonald’s employee in Altoona, Pennsylvania, who reported Mangione to authorities after customers recognized him from news reports.
Justice Gregory Carro—who previously dismissed terrorism charges due to insufficient evidence—will continue the hearing on Tuesday. Prosecutors with Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg’s office oppose attempts to suppress the contents of Mangione’s backpack, which included a 3D-printed firearm, silencer, and journal writings. Mangione could face life imprisonment if convicted of second-degree murder. Supporters gathered outside the courthouse, some in costume, calling for his release as trial dates in both state and federal cases remain unscheduled.
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