Luigi Mangione’s legal defense fund is approaching $1 million as supporters organize a birthday fundraising campaign for the accused murderer who faces death penalty charges.

At a Glance

• Supporters launched a “27 for Luigi” campaign for Mangione’s 27th birthday on May 6, aiming to push his legal fund from $745,000 to $1 million
• Mangione faces federal and state charges for allegedly shooting UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson in Manhattan
• The Justice Department is pursuing the death penalty against Mangione, who has pleaded not guilty
• His attorney has criticized dual prosecutions and alleged improper eavesdropping on attorney-client calls
• Supporters are organizing donations, birthday wishes, and protests highlighting detention conditions

Fundraising Campaign Gains Momentum

Luigi Mangione’s supporters have organized a donation drive called “27 for Luigi” to coincide with his upcoming 27th birthday on May 6. The campaign encourages donors to contribute $27 to his legal defense fund with the goal of reaching $1 million. Currently standing at approximately $745,000, the fund has received significant support, including a single donation of $36,500 accompanied by a cryptic message. Supporters are also submitting birthday wishes, fan art, and messages of solidarity alongside their financial contributions.

The fundraising effort represents a broader movement of supporters who have rallied behind Mangione since his arrest following the shooting of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson in Manhattan. Many donors express concerns about the justice system’s handling of the case, with some portraying Mangione in a heroic light despite the serious charges against him. The campaign organizers have also announced plans for a protest to highlight conditions at the Metropolitan Detention Center where Mangione is currently held.

Legal Battles on Multiple Fronts

Mangione’s legal situation is complex, involving charges in both federal and New York state courts, as well as in Pennsylvania where he was apprehended after a multi-day manhunt. He has pleaded not guilty to charges related to the murder of Brian Thompson. His attorneys recently requested that a judge dismiss the state case, arguing that dual prosecutions at the federal and state levels constitute double jeopardy and place an undue burden on their client’s defense.

Mangione’s defense team has raised serious concerns about alleged improper eavesdropping on attorney-client calls, further complicating the legal proceedings. The Justice Department’s decision to pursue the death penalty has intensified the case’s profile and galvanized supporters who express disappointment with this development. Many donors emphasize the principle of “innocent until proven guilty” in their messages of support, calling for fair and transparent legal proceedings.

Controversy Surrounds Case

When arrested in Pennsylvania, authorities allegedly found Mangione in possession of a pistol, silencer, and other evidence linking him to Thompson’s murder. Despite these findings, his supporters remain steadfast in their belief in his innocence or in their perception that extenuating circumstances justify their support. The case has also spawned unusual side controversies, including rumors of sex tapes featuring Mangione that his attorney, Karen Agnifilo, has publicly declared are fake.

The remarkable level of financial support for Mangione’s defense highlights the polarizing nature of the case. While law enforcement authorities have built a case serious enough to warrant capital punishment considerations, a significant segment of the public has mobilized substantial resources for his defense. Messages from donors frequently reference distrust of the criminal justice system and questions about the handling of evidence and procedures in the case.