New York judge tosses terrorism charges against Luigi Mangione, lets murder count stand

"While the defendant was clearly expressing an animus toward UHC, and the health care industry generally, it does not follow that his goal was to 'intimidate and coerce a civilian population,' and indeed, there was no evidence presented of such a goal,"

"murdered Brian Thompson in a premeditated and calculated execution."

"We respect the Court's decision and will proceed on the remaining nine counts."

Judge Gregory Carro dismissed terrorism charges against Luigi Mangione in New York state's case over the killing of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, finding ideology alone does not meet the statutory terrorism standard. The judge wrote there was no evidence Mangione sought to intimidate or coerce a civilian population or intended to influence government policy by intimidation or coercion. The court retained second-degree murder charges, concluding there was sufficient evidence that Mangione murdered Brian Thompson in a premeditated and calculated execution. Pretrial hearings were scheduled for Dec. 1. Mangione appeared in beige prison clothes, handcuffs and shackles, and prosecutors said they will proceed on the remaining nine counts.

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