A hurriedly scheduled federal hearing for Luigi Mangione, who is accused in the killing of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, is set for later today, 14 August 2026. The timing has led to speculation that Mangione might plead guilty in these federal proceedings.
Mangione faces two stalking counts in his federal case. Separately, he faces murder and weapons charges in a New York state case, which is due to begin on 8 September. He has pleaded not guilty in both cases, both of which could lead to a life prison sentence.
The federal hearing was scheduled by Manhattan federal judge Margaret Garnett on 11 August, following a joint request from Mangione's lawyers and prosecutors. The request for the conference offered few details, contributing to the speculation of a potential plea deal.
During a state proceeding on Tuesday, Judge Gregory Carro announced that the jury for the state trial would be anonymous. This decision was made in response to a prosecution request citing a significant risk of juror harassment and intimidation due to pre-trial publicity and the actions of Mangione's supporters.