In a significant development, Luigi Mangione broke his silence on Friday through a statement posted on a newly launched website managed by his legal defense team. The 26-year-old suspect in the United Healthcare CEO Brian Thompson murder case is currently detained at Brooklyn's Metropolitan Detention Center.
"I am overwhelmed by – and grateful for – everyone who has written me to share their stories and express their support," Mangione wrote. "Powerfully, this support has transcended political, racial, and even class divisions, as mail has flooded MDC from across the country, and around the globe. While I can't reply to most letters, please know that I read every one that I receive. Thank you again to everyone who took the time to write. I look forward to hearing more in the future."
The authenticity of the website was exclusively confirmed to Rolling Stone by a spokesperson for Mangione's legal team, though they declined further comment. The site's homepage features a message from his attorneys explaining its purpose: "Due to the extraordinary volume of inquiries and outpouring of support, this site was created and is maintained by Luigi Mangione's New York legal defense team to provide answers to frequently asked questions, accurate information about his cases, and dispel misinformation. The intent is to share factual information regarding the unprecedented, multiple prosecutions against him."
Mangione, who pleaded not guilty to state murder and terror charges in December, also faces federal charges for second-degree murder and weapons violations. His next court appearance, initially scheduled for the morning of February 21 in Manhattan, has been rescheduled to the afternoon of the same day.
The website includes sections for case updates, statements from lead defense attorney Karen Friedman Agnifilo, FAQs, and a contact form. A notable feature is the contributions section, which links to a Give Send Go crowdfunding campaign established by supporters for his legal expenses. The fund has already gathered substantial support, exceeding $400,000 by Friday night. Agnifilo addressed this in a recent statement: "Luigi is aware of the fund and very much appreciates the outpouring of support. My client plans on utilizing it to fight all three of the unprecedented cases against him."
The support for Mangione has manifested in numerous letters, photos, and books sent to him at the detention center. However, due to facility regulations, he can only possess five books, a photo album, and 25 pictures at any time, though wardens may adjust these limits. In response to the overwhelming volume of items received, his legal team has requested a temporary pause in book donations and asked that supporters limit photo submissions to five at a time, noting that all photos undergo law enforcement screening.