Luigi Mangione's lawyers will argue psychiatric defense in New York state murder trial

A state court hearing revealed Luigi Mangione's lawyers will argue that he was suffering from an extreme emotional disturbance when he allegedly killed UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson in New York City in December 2024.

Mangione was in a New York City courtroom Wednesday morning for a hearing regarding his state murder case. He also faces a federal trial.

By asserting this defense, Mangione would effectively admit to killing Thompson, but because of mitigating circumstances. 

Mangione could be convicted of the less serious charge of manslaughter rather than murder if a jury finds that he was emotionally disturbed. 

Judge Gregory Carro announced that he is unsealing court records related to the defense's plan, which was filed in September. 

Possession of a weapon charge dismissed

Prosecutors said they are not moving forward with count nine of the indictment, which was criminal possession of a weapon. 

This charge involved the magazine that was suppressed by the court. 

That charge was formally dismissed Wednesday.

Mangione faces federal and state charges

Wednesday's hearing was supposed to happen Tuesday, but it was delayed at the last minute due to a mistake by the prosecution. Prosecutors said they did not serve the order for Mangione to appear in court, leading to the rescheduling.     

"Mistakes happen. People make mistakes," defense attorney Karen Agnifilo said after appearing in court Tuesday.   

Mangione is being tried on federal and state charges for the shooting death of Thompson in Midtown Manhattan. He pleaded not guilty in both cases.

Mangione's state trial is set to begin on Sept. 8.

Jury selection for Mangione's federal interstate stalking trial is scheduled to start on Oct. 5. Opening statements are expected on either Oct. 26 or Nov. 2.