Luigi Mangione missed his scheduled Manhattan state court appearance Tuesday morning because of a paperwork error, delaying proceedings in the case of the 2024 killing of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson.
Judge announces absence
When Judge Gregory Carro took the bench shortly after 10 a.m., he stated, "Unfortunately, the defendant will not be produced today, no fault of this court." Carro invited prosecutors to explain the situation on the record.
"It's on us," prosecutor Joel Seidemann admitted. He explained that while the necessary paperwork to transport Mangione from jail to court had been signed, it was not delivered as required.
Rescheduled appearance
Mangione is now scheduled to appear in court on Wednesday. He faces both state and federal charges in connection with Thompson's death on December 4, 2024, in New York City. He has pleaded not guilty in both cases.
Public reaction
Thompson's killing sparked a massive manhunt and ignited public outrage against the for-profit U.S. healthcare system. Several dozen supporters of Mangione attended the court hearing. One woman was seen manipulating white prayer beads, mouthing words with her eyes closed as if in prayer. Several supporters who obtained press credentials under New York City's controversial credentialing process were also present.
Legal details
Mangione faces nine counts in his state court case, including second-degree murder. The trial is scheduled for September 8. His last state court proceeding was held in secrecy, with sealed proceedings over press objections. Judge Carro and his staff refused to hear press requests for access.
In the federal case, Mangione faces stalking charges. One charge alleges he "traveled across state lines via an interstate bus line for the purpose of stalking and killing Brian Thompson." Another charge cites the use of interstate facilities, including a cell phone, interstate wires, highways, a hostel serving interstate customers, and the internet to plan the murder.
