A New York judge has dismissed terrorism-related charges against Luigi Mangione in the killing of health executive Brian Thompson, though he still faces murder charges and a federal case seeking the death penalty.

A New York state judge on Tuesday threw out two terrorism-related counts against 27-year-old Luigi Mangione over the December 2024 killing of Brian Thompson, a former UnitedHealth Group executive. Justice Gregory Carro ruled that prosecutors failed to show Mangione acted with intent to intimidate health insurance workers or influence government policy, a requirement for proving terrorism-linked murder.

Mangione remains charged with second-degree murder, which carries a possible life sentence. He also faces a separate federal indictment where the U.S. Justice Department is pursuing the death penalty. Carro’s ruling does not affect the federal case.

Mangione, who has pleaded not guilty to both state and federal charges, appeared in court shackled and wearing tan prison clothing. His next state court date is scheduled for December 1. Thompson was shot outside a Midtown Manhattan hotel on December 4, during an investor conference for UnitedHealthcare.

The killing drew broad condemnation across the political spectrum. Yet Mangione has also attracted a small following among those who criticise high healthcare costs. Supporters gathered outside the courthouse on Wednesday, one dressed as Nintendo’s Luigi and another waving an Italian tricolour flag with “Healthcare is a human right” written across it. Inside the courtroom, about two dozen people watched, with one supporter wearing a “Free Luigi” shirt.

Trial dates have not yet been set in either case. Mangione has been held in federal custody in Brooklyn since his arrest.

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