Mangione pre-trial hearing wraps, but judge won’t rule on evidence for months : NPR

After weeks of testimony, pretrial suppression hearings in Luigi Mangione’s New York state case have concluded. Mangione, accused of murdering UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, faces charges including murder, possession of a weapon, and possession of a forged instrument.

The hearings will determine the admissibility of evidence, including items found in Mangione’s backpack at the time of his arrest, such as a handgun, magazine, silencer, and a notebook with incriminating content.

The defense argues that evidence obtained without a search warrant should be inadmissible, while prosecutors maintain that a warrant was not necessary during the arrest.

Mangione’s lawyers also seek to exclude statements made before he was informed of his rights.

Judge Gregory Carro will decide on the evidence’s admissibility by May 18.

The hearings have provided insight into key evidence, with officers testifying and body camera footage showing the arrest and search.

The evidence pertains to Mangione’s state trial, as he also faces federal charges that could result in the death penalty.

The murder of Brian Thompson sparked national discussions on healthcare costs, especially amid changes to the Affordable Care Act.

Mangione was previously charged with terrorism but the charge was dismissed, and his next court appearance is scheduled for January 9.

Additional reporting by WNYC’s Walter Wuthmann.