Luigi Mangione receives record legal defence donation after Donald Trump's death penalty order

An anonymous donor has contributed $11,000 to Luigi Mangione’s legal defense fund, citing concerns over Donald Trump’s executive order reinstating the federal death penalty.

The donation, the largest recorded on the GiveSendGo fundraiser, reflects growing controversy surrounding Trump’s January 20 directive, which instructs the attorney general to pursue capital punishment for severe crimes. The donor expressed fears that the death penalty is being politicized, warning that Mangione's right to a fair trial could be compromised.

Mangione, 26, faces federal charges for the murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, who was fatally shot outside a Midtown Manhattan Hilton hotel on December 4, 2024. If convicted, he could be sentenced to death under Trump’s executive order, which ended the moratorium on federal executions enacted by Joe Biden’s administration.

His defense fund has now raised over $485,000, as support continues to grow.

Mangione’s attorney, Karen Friedman Agnifilo, acknowledged the influx of donations, stating that her client “very much appreciates the outpouring of support” and intends to use the funds to fight all three of the unprecedented cases against him.

Mangione himself released a public statement, thanking supporters and highlighting how the backing has transcended political, racial, and class divisions.

Mangione is scheduled to appear in New York state court on Friday, followed by a Pennsylvania court hearing on February 24, and a federal court session on March 19.