Luigi Mangione, the primary suspect in the assassination of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, appeared in a New York City court on Friday for a hearing related to state murder and terrorism charges. Arriving in a bulletproof vest, Mangione appeared fatigued. Prosecutor Zachary Kaplan revealed the extensive nature of the evidence, encompassing 800 GB of data including surveillance footage, forensic results, and phone records. Defense attorney Karen Friedman Agnifilo contested the proposed deadlines for motions, citing the complexity of Mangione facing three separate criminal cases. She also raised concerns about potential police misconduct during his arrest in Altoona, Pennsylvania, and questioned the inclusion of interviews with Mayor Eric Adams and the NYPD Chief of Detectives in a recent HBO documentary.

Agnifilo expressed her disapproval of the NYPD's involvement in the documentary, stating to reporters, "I understand the NYPD’s need for a press conference. I didn’t understand how this week on HBO I see NYPD in makeup talking about evidence in the case that we had not received." She further highlighted potential constitutional violations during Mangione's arrest in Pennsylvania, citing concerns about activated body cameras and search and seizure procedures. Outside the courthouse, a group of Mangione's supporters rallied, chanting for his release. Some supporters wore green attire, referencing the Nintendo character "Luigi," as a symbol of their support.

Mangione, a 26-year-old Ivy League graduate, is accused of stalking and fatally shooting Thompson in December. His supporters maintain his innocence until proven guilty, but the substantial public support has raised concerns about potential jury nullification. Defense attorney Edwina Elcox commented on the complexities of the case, noting the public perception of Mangione as a figure fighting against corporate greed, contrasted with the victim's position as the CEO of a major health insurance company. Donations to Mangione's legal defense fund have reportedly exceeded $500,000.

Retired NYPD Inspector Paul Mauro acknowledged the possibility of jury nullification but expressed confidence in the strength of the evidence. He also pointed to the potential for federal charges carrying a death penalty sentence. The case has taken on political overtones, with bullet casings found at the scene inscribed with words mirroring the title of a book critical of the health insurance industry. Mangione's actions before and after the alleged murder, including a stop at Starbucks and his eventual arrest at a McDonald's, have also drawn significant attention. He is currently facing separate legal proceedings in New York, Pennsylvania, and federal court.