Prosecutors Seek Death Penalty for Luigi Mangione in Murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO

Federal prosecutors have formally notified a New York court of their intent to seek the death penalty against Luigi Mangione, who is accused of the premeditated murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson in December 2024. Prosecutors argue that Mangione poses a future danger due to his stated intent to target the health insurance industry and incite political and social opposition through lethal violence. The case has drawn national attention, with some Americans viewing Mangione as a symbol of protest against the healthcare industry, while public officials have widely condemned the killing. If convicted on federal charges, a jury would decide whether to recommend the death penalty, which a judge would then be required to impose if unanimous. Mangione, who pleaded not guilty, also faces multiple state and federal charges, with potential sentences ranging from life without parole to death. His defense attorneys have criticized the death penalty pursuit as politically motivated and a violation of due process.