Luigi Mangione thanks supporters in statement on new website

Luigi Mangione, centre, is escorted into Manhattan Criminal court for his arraignment on state murder and terror charges in the killing of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, Monday, Dec. 23, 2024, in New York. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig) (Seth Wenig/AP)

Luigi Mangione, the 26-year-old accused in the shooting of UnitedHealthcare executive Brian Thompson, has released a statement to a new website launched by his legal team.

In a brief message published to the site’s front page, Mangione thanks supporters for their messages.

“I am overwhelmed by - and grateful for - everyone who has written me to share their stories and express their support,” the statement reads. “Powerfully, this support has transcended political, racial, and even class divisions, as mail has flooded MDC from across the country, and around the globe.”

Mangione’s New York defence team says the website was created due to an “extraordinary volume of inquiries and outpouring of support,” in order to share information about his legal cases.

Arrested late last year, Mangione is currently held in the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn, N.Y., awaiting trial.

He faces charges in New York, Pennsylvania and U.S. federal court, including those relating to weapons, stalking and murder. Mangione has pleaded not guilty to the New York state charges, and as a December release from the U.S. Department of Justice notes, “All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.”

The legal team’s website includes case updates, statements and a list of frequently asked questions (FAQ) about sending mail to Mangione.

“Luigi is allowed to write and receive letters while in custody,” the FAQ reads. “Please note that every letter that is received or sent is screened and reviewed by law enforcement.”

The website notes that the volume of mail has been high and letters “could take longer than usual to be screened and delivered.”

“While it is impossible for me to reply to most letters, please know that I read every one that I receive,” Mangione’s statement continues. “Thank you again to everyone who took the time to write. I look forward to hearing more in the future.”

With files from The Associated Press