Defense attorneys for Luigi Mangione, accused of murdering UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, filed a motion to prevent him from appearing in shackles or a bulletproof vest during court. They argue that the security measures contribute to a negative perception that could prejudice jurors against him. With the case garnering significant media attention, images of Mangione in shackles have circulated widely, further complicating his right to a fair trial. His legal team maintains that normal clothes and an unshackled appearance would uphold the presumption of innocence.
By allowing Mr. Mangione to appear with his hands unshackled, without a bulletproof vest, and wearing normal clothes, this court will reinforce Mr. Mangione's presumption of innocence.
The unprecedented public interest in Mangione's criminal cases means every court appearance is widely documented in videos, photographs, and court sketches.
Images of their client in shackles and a bulletproof vest have appeared in various news articles and in social media posts that garner millions of views.
One image of Mangione's shackled ankles at a February court appearance has been viewed more than 36 million times, his lawyers said.
Collection
[
|
...
]