New York: Luigi Mangione, accused of killing UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, is requesting a laptop in jail to review legal evidence.
His lawyers emphasize that the laptop will not have internet access and will only be used for legal case preparation.
A court filing on Monday revealed that Mangione needs access to over 15,000 pages of documents and extensive video evidence.
The laptop would allow him to study the material from his jail cell, ensuring he is informed about his case.
Similar laptop provisions have been granted to other federal inmates under strict security measures.
Prosecutors’ Concerns
The Manhattan District Attorney’s office, prosecuting Mangione under a rare terrorism-related murder charge, has not yet commented.
Prosecutors reportedly oppose the laptop request, citing threats made against witnesses involved in the case.
Defense attorney Karen Friedman Agnifilo argues that there is no evidence linking Mangione to any alleged threats.
Mangione, 26, is accused of shooting Thompson in December outside a Manhattan hotel before a UnitedHealthcare investor event.
Thompson, 50, a father of two, had worked at UnitedHealthcare for decades before his tragic death.
Case Background
Mangione, an Ivy League computer science graduate from a Maryland real estate family, has pleaded not guilty to state charges.
He also faces federal charges, which could result in the death penalty, though he has not yet entered a plea.
Additionally, he faces gun-related charges in Pennsylvania, where he was arrested days after the killing.
Thompson’s murder sent shockwaves through corporate America, leading some health insurance firms to switch to remote operations.
Authorities say Mangione’s writings and messages on bullets found at the scene revealed anger toward health insurers.
Public Reactions
The case has divided public opinion, with some viewing Mangione as a symbol of frustration with health insurance companies.
Supporters have donated money to his legal defense and attended his court hearings to show support.
Meanwhile, elected officials and others condemn what they call ideological violence and vigilante justice.
Mangione released a statement through his lawyers thanking his supporters for their encouragement.
Despite the controversy, his defense team insists the laptop is crucial for him to review the evidence properly.
Legal Battle
Without laptop access, Mangione can only view evidence during limited meetings with his attorneys.
His lawyers argue that the available visiting hours are not enough to properly examine all the case materials.
If approved, the laptop would be restricted, blocking internet access, gaming, movies, or any non-legal activity.
It would strictly serve as a tool for studying legal files and preparing his defense.
The court will soon decide whether to grant Mangione access to a laptop under these conditions.
