Suspect in UnitedHealthcare CEO killing retains high-powered NY attorney
Luigi Mangione, the suspect in the killing of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, has made a significant move in his legal defense by retaining Karen Friedman Agnifilo, a high-powered New York attorney and former CNN legal analyst, to represent him in his second-degree murder charge in New York. Agnifilo’s experience in the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office and her three decades of experience in criminal justice, litigation, and trials make her a formidable advocate for Mangione.
A spokesperson for Friedman Agnifilo confirmed her representation of Mangione, highlighting her previous role as the chief assistant district attorney in the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office and her expertise in New York City’s criminal justice system. She has been practicing in private practice with Agnifilo Intrater LLP for the past three years, handling criminal defense in state and federal courts, prosecuting serious violent crimes, and representing plaintiffs in civil and employment matters.
As investigators uncover new evidence in the case, including the discovery that the 3D-printed gun found in Mangione’s possession matches the shell casings at the crime scene and his fingerprints matching those found near the shooting, Mangione remains in custody in Pennsylvania. Despite facing extradition to New York, there are indications that he may waive extradition next week.
In Pennsylvania, Mangione faces charges of carrying a gun without a license, forgery, falsely identifying himself to authorities, and possessing “instruments of crime.” In addition to the murder charge, New York prosecutors have hit him with three counts of illegal weapons possession and forgery. His attorney, Thomas Dickey, maintains Mangione’s innocence in the murder case and plans for him to plead not guilty to all charges in both states.
Mangione’s alleged frustration with the health insurance industry and corporate greed was believed to have driven him to commit the crime, although he was not an insured member of UnitedHealthcare. As the legal proceedings continue, Mangione’s defense will be in the hands of Karen Friedman Agnifilo, a seasoned attorney with a wealth of experience in the criminal justice system. The outcome of this high-profile case remains to be seen as Mangione awaits his fate in custody.
