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

"These hearings will ultimately determine what evidence can and cannot be presented during the trial most notably, the contents of a backpack Mangione had at the time of his arrest, including a 9 mm handgun, a loaded gun magazine and silencer, and a red notebook in which prosecutors allege Mangione wrote of his intent to "wack" a health insurance executive."

"The defense has argued that this evidence should be inadmissible in court, because it was obtained without a search warrant. Prosecutors say that a search warrant was not required at the time of Mangione's arrest at a McDonald's in Altoona, Pennsylvania. Mangione's lawyers also argue that statements made to law enforcement before Mangione was informed of his right to remain silent should be inadmissible. It will be up to Judge Gregory Carro to determine whether or not this evidence will be admitted."

"This pretrial hearing has given the public unique insight into some of the most crucial pieces of evidence in the case. Over the course of three weeks, multiple officers involved in Mangione's arrest testified, and body-worn camera footage from multiple angles shows officers approaching Mangione and searching his backpack while Christmas music plays in the background. The evidence in question would apply to Mangione's New York state trial, though Mangione is also facing separate federal charges. If convicted federally, he could face the death penalty."

Luigi Mangione's New York state pretrial suppression hearings concluded after nearly three weeks of testimony. The hearings will determine whether backpack evidence seized at his arrest—including a 9 mm handgun, loaded magazine, silencer, and a red notebook alleging intent to "wack" a health insurance executive—can be presented at trial. The defense contends the items were obtained without a search warrant and seeks exclusion of statements made before Mangione was informed of his right to remain silent. Prosecutors argue no warrant was required at the McDonald's arrest in Altoona, Pennsylvania. Judge Gregory Carro will issue a ruling on May 18.

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