Attorneys for Luigi Mangione described the killing of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson as a “single, tragic event” while arguing that Mangione’s guilty plea in federal court should bar further prosecution on murder charges under double jeopardy protections.
Speaking outside the federal courthouse in Lower Manhattan, defense lawyer Karen Friedman Agnifilo said Mangione, 28, had taken full responsibility for Thompson’s death through a guilty plea entered only moments earlier during a tense and closely watched hearing.
Agnifilo also signaled the defense’s next move: an effort to have the pending state murder case dismissed in the wake of Mangione’s federal plea.
“It was a single tragic event, yet he’s being persecuted twice for the same conduct,” Agnifilo said.
According to Agnifilo, Mangione’s legal team has filed a motion in Manhattan criminal court contending that the federal guilty plea activates double jeopardy protections and should prevent the state case from moving forward.
The Manhattan District Attorney’s Office, however, indicated it is prepared to oppose the defense’s bid.
“While federal sentencing is pending, we are prepared to litigate the defense motions. The Manhattan D.A.’s Office remains committed to seeking justice for Mr. Thompson and his family,” a spokesperson said in a statement.
“Since December 2024, the Manhattan DA’s Office has been tirelessly preparing to pursue a trial conviction in New York State Supreme Court for the alleged cold-blooded murder of Brian Thompson,” the statement said.
“We are encouraged that Mr. Thompson’s family received a measure of accountability today.
Mangione’s family.”
Jury selection in the state case is set to start Sept. 8.
Mangione will face up to life in prison when he’s sentenced in the federal case Dec. 18.
