Luigi Mangione won’t face the death penalty for UnitedHealth CEO’s killing, judge rules

A federal judge has blocked prosecutors from seeking the death penalty for Luigi Mangione in the killing of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson. Judge Margaret Garnett ruled the murder charge that enabled capital punishment was technically flawed, removing it. She dismissed a gun charge but kept stalking charges, which carry a life sentence, in place. Garnett ruled that evidence from Mangione's backpack, including a handgun and notebook detailing his alleged intent, is admissible. Prosecutors have 30 days to decide whether to appeal the death penalty decision. The judge acknowledged her ruling might seem unusual, but said she was adhering to Supreme Court precedents. Mangione's lawyers were relieved, while prosecutors stated their readiness for trial. Jury selection in the federal case is set for September, with the state trial date still pending. Thompson was murdered in December 2024, with Mangione arrested days later. The Justice Department, under Trump, sought the death penalty in this case, marking a significant step.