Kathmandu— Luigi Mangione, 28, has pleaded guilty to two federal stalking charges stemming from the December 4, 2024, murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson in Manhattan. He admitted in court to shooting Thompson, who was on his way to an investor conference, and faces a maximum sentence of life in prison without parole. The plea comes after Mangione traveled across state lines to track Thompson’s movements, according to federal prosecutors, and follows the dismissal of potential capital punishment charges.

Federal Guilty Plea and Potential Sentencing

Mangione entered his guilty plea before US District Judge Margaret Garnett on Friday, admitting to interstate stalking resulting in death and cyberstalking through interstate facilities resulting in death. He did not enter into a plea agreement with prosecutors, meaning he didn't receive any guarantees of a reduced sentence. Sentencing is scheduled for December 18. US Attorney Jamie McDonald stated that Mangione will be held accountable for the “heinous crime” and emphasized that no justification exists for murder.

Details of the Shooting and Manifesto

Thompson was shot from behind outside a Midtown Manhattan hotel while en route to a UnitedHealthcare investor conference. Investigators found shell casings and bullets at the scene with the words “deny,” “depose,” and “delay” written on them, apparently referencing health insurance payout denials. A manifesto attributed to Mangione criticized the US healthcare system, alleging decades of corruption and greed, and described industry executives as “parasites.”

Ongoing State Charges and Double Jeopardy Motion

In addition to the federal charges, Mangione still faces eight felony counts in New York state, including second-degree murder and multiple weapons charges. His trial on those charges is scheduled to begin September 8. Following his federal plea, Mangione’s lawyers filed a motion to dismiss the state charges, arguing that double jeopardy protections prevent him from being prosecuted twice for the same crime. The Manhattan District Attorney’s Office intends to oppose this motion.

Public Reaction and Investigation

The case has sparked renewed public debate regarding health insurance industry practices and access to care. Officials have cautioned against glorifying Mangione or portraying his actions as heroic, after expressions of support appeared on social media. The Department of Justice initially announced its intention to seek the death penalty in April 2025, but Judge Garnett later dismissed those charges along with silencer-related counts.

The resolution of the double jeopardy motion will determine whether Mangione faces further prosecution in New York state court following his federal sentencing.

(With inputs from RT)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.