NYC Judge Drops Terrorism Charges in UnitedHealthcare CEO Murder Case

Luigi Mangione, the man accused of murdering UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, had his terrorism charges dismissed in a New York court on September 16, 2025. Judge Gregory Carro ruled the evidence presented to the grand jury was insufficient to sustain the terrorism charges. However, Mangione still faces second-degree murder charges, which carry a potential sentence of 15 years to life in prison.

<img src="https://www.newsnationnow.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/108/2025/09/AP25259491696401.jpg?w=900" alt="Luigi Mangione in court">

While acknowledging the crime's severity, the judge stated that not all non-street crimes qualify as terrorism. The ruling focused on the lack of evidence demonstrating Mangione's intention to intimidate or coerce a civilian population. Though Mangione expressed animus towards UnitedHealthcare and the healthcare industry, this wasn't sufficient to meet the legal criteria for terrorism.

Mangione's Court Appearance and Public Reaction

Mangione's appearance marked his first court appearance in months. He appeared in a prison jumpsuit and remained largely silent during the proceedings. Outside the courthouse, a small group of supporters gathered, expressing their views on healthcare. Inside, numerous onlookers attended the hearing, including some wearing "Free Luigi" t-shirts, indicative of the national following Mangione has gained.

<img src="https://www.newsnationnow.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/108/2025/09/AP25259493034154.jpg" alt="Supporters of Luigi Mangione outside the courthouse">

Federal Charges Still Pending

Mangione also faces federal charges, which could include the death penalty. The state and federal cases will proceed separately, with the state trial expected to commence first. Mangione's legal team argued that the dual prosecutions constituted double jeopardy, a claim the judge dismissed as premature.

The case revolves around the shooting death of Thompson last year. Excerpts from Mangione's notebook, released by the Manhattan District Attorney's Office, detail the alleged planning behind the killing and reveal a desire to make a political statement about the health insurance industry.

Pretrial hearings in the New York case are scheduled for December 1st.