A federal judge in New York dismissed the death-eligible counts from Luigi Mangione’s indictment on January 30, 2026, removing the death penalty as a possible sentence in his case. Mangione faces multiple charges related to the December 2024 killing of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson in Midtown Manhattan.
Mangione is charged with stalking and murdering Thompson, as well as using a weapon equipped with a silencer. At the state level, prosecutors filed an indictment with three counts of murder, which carries a maximum sentence of life imprisonment without parole. Federal prosecutors initially pursued the death penalty in addition to these charges. However, the presiding judge ruled that federal prosecutors cannot seek the death penalty against Mangione.
The decision followed extensive pretrial litigation, as prosecutors and the defense argued over the appropriateness of capital punishment in this case. Defense attorneys pointed out that local federal prosecutors recommended against pursuing the death penalty, citing legal and historical precedents. The judge’s dismissal of death-eligible counts reflects adherence to these interpretations and limits the possible penalties Mangione faces during trial.
Mangione has pleaded not guilty to all state and federal charges. His case has drawn significant attention due to the prominence of the victim and the nature of the crime. Prosecutors have emphasized the severe charges, which include stalking related to the victim prior to the murder. Records also indicate Mangione possessed a firearm with a silencer at the time of the incident.
Following the judge’s ruling, the case will proceed with murder charges without the option of capital punishment. The New York State Supreme Court has jurisdiction over the murder indictment, which the Manhattan District Attorney’s office announced on December 17, 2024. Mangione appeared in federal court for a hearing addressing key pretrial issues, including this ruling on the death penalty.
Additional details in the legal proceedings point to accusations that Mangione planned and executed the attack in a manner that heightened public safety concerns. Prosecutors filed a total of 11 state charges alongside the federal counts, addressing various crimes linked to the murder and stalking allegations.
Since Mangione’s arrest, court hearings have charted the progress of both state and federal prosecution. As of January 30, 2026, with the dismissal of death-eligible counts, Mangione’s potential sentences are capped by the maximum penalties allowed under life imprisonment statutes. The case remains pending further hearings and trial proceedings in New York courts.
