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“While the defendant was clearly expressing an animus toward UHC, and the health care industry generally, it does not follow that his goal was to ‘intimidate and coerce a civilian population,’ and indeed, there was no evidence presented of such a goal,” Carro wrote.
Prosecutors had argued that Mangione’s actions were meant to instill fear among UnitedHealthcare employees and possibly others in the industry. Carro rejected that argument outright, signaling that prosecutors failed to prove the broader intent required for terrorism-related charges.
Despite the setback, Manhattan District Attorney officials insist the case isn’t over.
“We respect the Court’s decision and will proceed on the remaining nine counts, including Murder in the Second Degree,” the DA’s office stated.
Those remaining charges include multiple weapons violations and the core second-degree murder count that keeps Mangione in serious legal jeopardy.
Mangione is accused of shooting Thompson with a silenced 9mm handgun on December 4, 2024, outside a Midtown Manhattan hotel.
Just days later, investigators tracked him to a McDonald’s in Altoona, Pennsylvania, where they say they recovered the alleged murder weapon and a fake ID.
Federal prosecutors have also brought a separate indictment that includes murder through the use of a firearm—a charge carrying the possibility of the death penalty if convicted.
During Tuesday’s hearing, Mangione remained silent, offering no reaction to the court’s decision.
His next hearing is scheduled for December 1, when prosecutors are expected to move forward on the remaining counts.
On X, Fox News confirmed that “state terrorism charges against him have now been dismissed.”
Footage shared online showed cheers from Mangione’s supporters, who believe the case against him has been overblown. Over the past year, Mangione has gained a small but vocal following, with many backing his claims of innocence.
For now, Mangione pleads not guilty to every charge still standing, setting the stage for what could be a lengthy and high-profile trial.
