A judge in New York ruled that some evidence seized during Luigi Mangione’s arrest at a Pennsylvania McDonald’s cannot be used in his trial. The decision involves items taken from Mangione’s backpack, which is deemed to have been unconstitutionally searched after being moved out of his immediate reach. However, Judge Gregory Carro found that a later search at the police station was conducted lawfully, allowing some evidence to be presented to jurors, including the alleged murder weapon.
The judge’s detailed ruling appeared online before a Monday court hearing. It supports the defense’s claim that the initial search breached constitutional rights but permits evidence found later at the police precinct. During that valid search, authorities discovered a handgun linked to the murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, who was 50 years old at the time.
Most of Mangione’s statements to the police in Pennsylvania are admissible, except portions related to a fake ID post-Miranda warning. In a parallel federal case, another judge has denied objections to the backpack search. This decision means that evidence like the alleged murder weapon, a 3D-printed silencer, and the fake ID will be included in the federal proceedings.
Mangione stands accused of shooting Thompson outside a Manhattan Hilton hotel on December 4, 2024. The victim was walking to a business conference when the shooting occurred. Following the incident, Mangione allegedly fled by bicycle to Altoona, Pennsylvania. Recognition from individuals who saw a wanted poster led to Mangione’s arrest five days later.
“Authorities searched Mangione’s bag several times before obtaining a warrant,” defense attorneys noted, arguing the search was improper post-arrest.
Prosecutors, however, argued that Altoona police acted appropriately based on the situation. At present, Mangione maintains a not guilty plea to all charges, which include second-degree murder, several weapons offenses, and possessing fake identification.
The Manhattan trial is slated to commence on September 8. Charges of terrorism, previously considered, were dismissed by the court. Meanwhile, in the separate federal court proceeding, Judge Margaret Garnett maintains that the backpack evidence is admissible. She also ruled out the death penalty for Mangione’s federal trial.
The murder of Brian Thompson, who had traveled from Minnesota to New York City for investor meetings, has been described by prosecutors as a politically motivated assassination. Surveillance footage captured his final moments as he was approached from behind and shot by an assailant.