Luigi Mangione's legal team withdraws psychiatric defense

Luigi Mangione's legal team announced Thursday they are withdrawing a psychiatric defense in his New York state murder trial, just one day after informing the court they intended to use it. The defense had argued that Mangione was experiencing an extreme emotional disturbance at the time he allegedly shot and killed UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson in Manhattan in 2024.

Legal expert Richard Schoenstein explained that by asserting a psychiatric defense, Mangione would essentially admit to killing Thompson but under mitigating circumstances. This differs from an insanity defense, which typically aims for complete acquittal. A successful psychiatric defense could potentially lead to a shorter prison sentence for Mangione, as the murder charge might be reduced to manslaughter.

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by asserting the psychiatric defense, Mangione would effectively admit to killing Thompson with mitigating circumstances.

Mangione was present in court for Wednesday's hearing. His attorneys have been contacted by CBS News New York for comment. Mangione's next court appearance is scheduled for August 11, with the state trial set to commence in September. Further updates on this developing story will be provided by CBS News New York.

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That's different than an insanity defense, which usually seeks total absolution.