Luigi Mangione faces New York court as trial nears

A former UnitedHealthcare chief executive is back in a Manhattan courtroom on Tuesday, ahead of a murder trial that could lead to decades of imprisonment if he is convicted.

The judge decided to allow prosecutors to introduce a gun and handwritten notes, which the defence argued were improperly seized. Items such as a passport, cell phone and a computer chip were excluded.

Mangione has pleaded not guilty to second‑degree murder and weapons charges, and his lawyers have not yet announced a comprehensive defence strategy. An earlier proposal of “extreme emotional disturbance” was withdrawn, and speculation remains about whether an insanity plea may be considered.

The case has become a national spectacle, as supporters link it to backlash over rising U.S. healthcare costs while critics view the suspect as a dangerous individual. Jury selection will begin on 8 September, adding to the public interest.

The court is also grappling with media access. The defence has asked for live streaming, but New‑York state law does not allow it. Prosecutors say they will not decide which reporters attend, and the district attorney will defer to the judge’s ruling on courtroom space and security.

"The more his case is about who killed the victim, the easier it is for the prosecution," said former federal prosecutor Mitchell Epner.