Federal Charges Center on Stalking Laws
Mangione faces prosecution under two federal stalking statutes, which prosecutors allege he violated in causing Thompson’s death. Judge Garnett noted that her ruling does not affect the question of guilt or innocence—the jury will still weigh the evidence and determine whether Mangione is responsible.
Judge Garnett also warned that the government is likely to appeal her decision to remove the death penalty, a move that could accelerate legal maneuvering before the trial begins.
Separate State Case to Proceed
In parallel, Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg’s office has requested to move forward with its own murder trial against Mangione, starting July 1. Under New York state law, capital punishment is not permitted, meaning life imprisonment is the maximum sentence if Mangione is convicted in state court.
Evidence Upheld
In a separate Friday ruling, Judge Garnett declined to suppress evidence obtained from a search of Mangione’s backpack during his Dec. 9, 2024, arrest in Pennsylvania. That decision allows prosecutors to use the material in both the federal and state proceedings.
