Defense Cites Trump Posts, Seeks Dismissal | JQJO

Lawyers for Luigi Mangione asked a federal judge to dismiss the indictment or remove the death penalty, arguing the Trump administration made him “a pawn” and tainted his right to a fair trial via posts calling him “a pure assassin” and reposts by Justice Department officials. Prosecutors said the statements were not prejudicial. Mangione, accused of fatally shooting UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson outside a Manhattan hotel in December 2024, has pleaded not guilty. His Pennsylvania case is stalled as he remains jailed in Brooklyn and refuses remote appearances; a judge gave 14 days to seek an in-person hearing.