Judge Dismisses Terrorism Charges Against Luigi Mangione in UnitedHealthcare CEO Murder Case

A New York judge has dismissed terrorism-related murder charges against Luigi Mangione, who is accused of fatally shooting UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson in December 2024. Judge Gregory Carro ruled that the evidence presented was insufficient to support the charges of first-degree murder as a crime of terrorism and second-degree murder as an act of terrorism.

"While the defendant was clearly expressing an animus toward UHC, and the health care industry generally, it does not follow that his goal was to 'intimidate and coerce a civilian population,' and indeed, there was no evidence presented of such a goal," Judge Carro stated in his decision.

The Manhattan District Attorney's Office acknowledged the ruling, stating, "We respect the Court's decision and will proceed on the remaining nine counts, including Murder in the Second Degree."

Mangione, 26, has pleaded not guilty to the remaining charges, which include second-degree murder, multiple counts of criminal possession of a weapon, and possession of a forged instrument. He is also facing federal charges, including murder through the use of a firearm, which could make him eligible for the death penalty if convicted.

The case continues to draw significant public attention, with supporters of Mangione attending court proceedings. His next hearing is scheduled for December 1.