Luigi Mangione Opposes Back-to-Back Trials in UnitedHealthcare CEO Murder Case

Sat Feb 07 2026 01:30:40 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

In a courtroom outburst, Luigi Mangione voiced his concerns about the implications of facing both state and federal trials in the murder of UnitedHealthcare's CEO Brian Thompson. Mangione's attorney argues he is caught in a legal tug-of-war that may violate double jeopardy protections.

Luigi Mangione, accused of murdering UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, has formally contested his upcoming state trial set for June 8, arguing it constitutes a form of double jeopardy as he prepares for related federal charges. His attorney expressed concerns about the risk of unfair prejudice resulting from the duplication of trials and emphasized that the current schedule puts Mangione in an 'untenable situation.' The court may consider adjustments to the timeline to prevent legal overlaps.

NEW YORK (RTW News) — Luigi Mangione spoke out in court regarding the prospect of facing back-to-back trials following the murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson. As he was escorted out of the courtroom, Mangione expressed, It's the same trial twice. One plus one is two. Double jeopardy by any commonsense definition.

The 27-year-old faced the court as Judge Gregory Carro scheduled his state murder trial for June 8, three months ahead of jury selection for a related federal case. During discussions between the judge, prosecutors, and defense counsel, there was mention of a potential delay for the state trial to September 8 if appeals shifted the federal timeline.

Mangione's legal team objected, stating that their preparation for the federal trial, which includes allegations of stalking Thompson before his death, will consume their resources. Attorney Karen Friedman Agnifilo highlighted the conflicting interests of two prosecuting offices, asserting Mangione is placed in a precarious position as they strategize for both trials.

In responding to these issues, Judge Carro commented, Be ready, indicating that the court is aware of the logistical challenges at hand. Mangione has pled not guilty to both state and federal charges, which could lead to life imprisonment. Notably, a previous ruling from the judge prohibited prosecutors from pursuing the death penalty in the federal case.

The trial schedule is developing, with jury selection for the federal case expected on September 8, followed by initial testimonies on October 13. Prosecutors have expressed that an unnecessary delay could prejudice the state's case, arguing for an earlier start date to prevent any disadvantages for the family of Thompson.

There’s a consensus in court that scheduling the state trial first might avoid complications related to double jeopardy. According to New York law, if a federal trial occurs first and results in a guilty plea or similar, it may prevent the state from pursuing their case against Mangione.

Prosecutors have mentioned key evidence, including a 9 mm firearm and written statements from Mangione indicating intent to commit an attack against Thompson, bolstering their case against him. He was arrested on December 9, 2024, shortly after Thompson was killed as he approached a Manhattan hotel for a conference.