Luigi Mangione is asking his supporters to limit the number of photographs they’re sending to him as he awaits trial.
The 26-year-old, who has pleaded not guilty to state charges relating to the December killing of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, has been championed as a hero by supporters who are critical of the health insurance system. His lawyers have even set up a website with information for fans bombarding Mangione with letters and gifts at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn.
The site—which says it was created in response to the “extraordinary volume of inquiries and outpouring of support” for Mangione—includes a specific request from the accused killer relating to the photographs supporters are sending him.
In an FAQ section with the heading “Can I send Luigi photos?” the website explains that Mangione can receive photos while in custody, but due to “the volume of photos, they could take longer than usual to be screened and shared.”
“Luigi appreciates the photos that are sent and kindly asks that people send no more than five photos at a time,” the section reads. “Please note that every photo that is received is screened and reviewed by law enforcement.”
The page also says that Mangione is asking fans to “temporarily refrain from sending more books” given that so many “have already been mailed” to him.
It separately directs supporters to a GiveSendGo page through which supporters can contribute to Mangione’s legal defense fund. The fundraiser has already received over $600,000 of its $1 million goal.
“I am overwhelmed by—and grateful for—everyone who has written me to share their stories and express their support,” reads a message from Mangione on his information website.
“Powerfully, this support has transcended political, racial, and even class divisions, as mail has flooded MDC from across the country, and around the globe,” the message adds. “While it is impossible for me to 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.”
Supporters, some wearing “Free Luigi” clothing, rallied outside a Manhattan courthouse where Mangione made an appearance for a hearing on Friday. Some of the young women in the courthouse also wore red sweaters and shirts with white collars seemingly to pay homage to what Mangione wore during a previous court date, according to the New York Times.
UnitedHealthcare executive Thompson, 50, was fatally wounded in a shooting outside a Manhattan hotel hosting the company’s annual investor conference on Dec. 4. His family described him as an “incredibly loving father” to his two sons.
Mangione was arrested in Pennsylvania after a weeklong manhunt for the shooter. Authorities alleged he was carrying a firearm they believe was used during the attack along with a fake ID the suspect had used.
Mangione has pleaded not guilty to charges in Manhattan including first-degree murder and a charge which would label him a terrorist. He is separately facing state charges in Pennsylvania and federal charges which could carry the death penalty.
