On Monday, 26-year-old Luigi Mangione was arrested in connection with the murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson in Manhattan last week. Since his arrest, Mangione has gained some online support, with some people even offering to pay for his legal defense.
In a viral CNN appearance, Mangione’s attorney, Thomas Dickey, revealed that his office had received offers from individuals wanting to contribute to Mangione’s legal fees. However, Dickey stated that he “probably wouldn’t” accept these donations. When asked by reporter Kaitlan Collins why people wanted to help, Dickey referenced the Supreme Court’s 2010 Citizens United decision, which allowed unlimited spending by corporations and outside groups in elections, suggesting that these individuals may be exercising their right to free speech by supporting his client.
Dickey also appeared on NewsNation with Chris Cuomo, where he emphasized that he had seen “no evidence” of Mangione’s guilt in the shooting. He urged the public not to rush to judgment, reminding viewers that no one would want to be unfairly accused or have their loved ones judged prematurely.
