While most people mark their birthday with cake and candles, Luigi Mangione spent his 27th locked inside a Brooklyn jail—yet still received a million-dollar “gift” from his loyal supporters.
The UPenn graduate, currently facing the death penalty in connection with the high-profile murder of UnitedHealthCare CEO Brian Thompson, continues to draw massive public attention—and financial backing.
A Birthday Behind Bars Sparks a Wave of Donations
Mangione’s 27th birthday on Tuesday wasn’t spent in freedom, but his fans still found a way to celebrate.
On the same day, the crowdfunding campaign set up for his legal defense crossed the $1 million mark.
Since the page launched on December 9, 2024—just days after his arrest at a McDonald’s in Pennsylvania—more than 28,000 contributors have chipped in to support his legal fight.
His legal team says the money will go toward battling not just one, but three separate cases being brought against him across different states.
Supporters Show Love Through Dollars and Messages
Despite tough economic times, Mangione’s followers continue to dig deep into their pockets.
Many even donated symbolic amounts—like $27—to mark each year of his life. Along with the donations came heartfelt notes.
One supporter called him “the sweetest, intelligent, funny, charismatic gentleman” and wished him strength in his journey.
Another fan wrote, “Happy birthday Luigi 💖 Hope next year you can celebrate as a free man.”
Some supporters even honored him with actions—like biking 27 miles in tribute.
Outside the Courtroom, Tensions Run High
Mangione, who has pleaded not guilty to both federal and state charges, appeared in Manhattan federal court on April 25.
Outside the courthouse, dozens of supporters waved signs with messages like “Free Luigi!” and “Death by deductible.”
But not everyone is in his corner.
Conservative artist Scott LoBaido showed up to protest—carrying a skeleton dressed like the iconic video game character Luigi and a sign that read, “Fk Luigi Mangione and his joff followers.”
Federal Prosecutors Seek Death Penalty
One day before that hearing, federal prosecutors confirmed their plan to pursue the death penalty.
Attorney General Pamela Bondi, in an April 1 statement, described the killing as “cold-blooded” and “premeditated,” saying it shocked the nation.
She noted this move is part of President Trump’s crime crackdown agenda.
Mangione is also facing murder and terror charges in New York State, and firearm and forgery charges in Pennsylvania related to fake IDs and weapons allegedly found during his arrest.
His legal team is challenging the Pennsylvania case, claiming he was unlawfully searched and arrested.
Legal Team Pushes Back on “Manifesto” Claims
Adding to the controversy, Mangione’s attorneys have asked that a handwritten note allegedly found in his possession not be labeled a “manifesto.”
According to them, referring to the note that way frames their client unfairly and feeds into a biased narrative about his political views.
Life in Brooklyn’s Notorious Detention Center
Currently, Mangione is being held at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn, the same facility housing rapper Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs.
Conditions at the jail have been widely criticized, with some referring to it as a “hellhole.”
His next court appearance for the New York state charges is scheduled for June 26, while his federal trial is expected to be scheduled on December 5.