By admin 
NEW YORK (Gray Media) – Luigi Mangione, the man accused of killing former United HealthCare CEO Brian Thompson in 2024, returned to a New York courtroom Wednesday as his defense team signaled a major shift in strategy.
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In the New York state murder case, Mangione’s attorneys plan to argue the 28-year-old was suffering from extreme emotional disturbance at the time Thompson was allegedly killed in December 2024. If jurors accept that defense, Mangione could face less prison time than if convicted of murder.
A key part of that strategy was discussed in a sealed hearing held two weeks ago by Justice Gregory Carro. While records tied to the defense’s approach remain sealed, Carro said they will be made public.
Mangione’s attorneys argued against releasing the documents, warning it could prejudice his separate federal murder case where the extreme emotional disturbance defense is not available. The state strategy could effectively amount to admitting the killing while arguing for a lesser charge; if successful, a jury could convict Mangione of manslaughter instead of murder.
The defense is not the same as an insanity plea, which can result in placement in a psychiatric facility rather than prison.
Justice Carro also dropped a charge related to a gun magazine found in Mangione’s backpack during a search at the time of his arrest.
Mangione is expected back in federal court later this month as he and his lawyers continue navigating multiple cases.
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