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In Lower Manhattan, a pre-trial hearing resumed today to determine which evidence will be admissible in the murder trial of Luigi Mangione, accused of killing UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson. The hearing focuses on the legality of Mangione's arrest and the subsequent search of his backpack in Altoona, Pennsylvania, over a year ago.
Key issues in the hearing include whether police officers conducted a legal search of Mangione's backpack and if they properly read him his Miranda rights. If the defense succeeds, crucial evidence such as a 3D-printed firearm, a loaded magazine, a silencer, and a handwritten journal found in the backpack may be excluded from the trial. Mangione has pleaded not guilty to nine charges, including second-degree murder.
The defense argues that the backpack search was illegal since officers did not obtain a warrant before the search. According to CNN, the officers debated the need for a warrant but ultimately conducted the search under the "search incident to arrest" policy. This policy allows officers to search a person and their belongings upon arrest. However, the defense contends that the search exceeded legal bounds.
During the hearing, body-camera footage showed Mangione using a fake name and ID at a McDonald's in Altoona, which officers used to justify his arrest. According to ABC News, this evidence could suggest Mangione's consciousness of guilt, aiding the prosecution's case.
The hearing continues as the defense seeks to suppress evidence and challenge the legality of the search and arrest. A trial date has not yet been set, and the outcome of this hearing could significantly impact the prosecution's case against Mangione.
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