PHILADELPHIA—The suspect in the killing of the UnitedHealthcare CEO plans to contest extradition to New York to face murder charges, but officials are looking to secure his return using a governor’s warrant.
The process of extradition could vary in duration, ranging from a quick resolution to potentially over a month. As of Wednesday, New York Governor Kathy Hochul’s office had not yet requested the warrant from Pennsylvania following the filing of murder charges against Luigi Mangione in New York.
Currently, Mangione is being held without bail in western Pennsylvania for the murder of Brian Thompson. He was apprehended on Monday morning while having breakfast at a McDonald’s in Altoona. Authorities discovered him in possession of a gun, mask, and writings linking him to the crime.
Here’s a breakdown of the extradition process:
What Is a Governor’s Warrant?
It is a warrant authorized by the governor of the state where a fugitive escapes to after committing a crime. The governor of the state where the crime took place then acts on an official request from the governor in the other state. In this case, Hochul is anticipated to seek a governor’s warrant from Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro.
What Evidence Does the Pennsylvania Governor Require Before Signing?
New York must demonstrate that the suspect has been formally charged in an indictment, an information, or, as in Mangione’s case, an arrest warrant supported by a police affidavit. Shapiro has been in contact with Hochul and is ready to promptly sign and process the warrant upon receipt, as confirmed by a spokesperson on Wednesday.
When Will New York Submit the Request?
As of Wednesday, Gov. Hochul’s office had not dispatched the request. She might opt to wait for Mangione to be indicted, which could occur swiftly if prosecutors present their evidence to a grand jury. According to Pennsylvania law, he can be detained for up to 30 days while authorities pursue a governor’s warrant.
What Happens If a Governor’s Warrant Is Granted?
Mangione will need to appear before a Pennsylvania judge to verify his identity as the individual sought by New York. This verification could involve matching his fingerprints or DNA to any evidence found at the crime scene, or other means of confirming his identity as stated in the warrant.
Will Mangione Consent to Extradition?
No, he intends to resist extradition, as indicated by a lawyer from Altoona representing him in initial court proceedings, including a bail hearing on Tuesday where Mangione’s bail request was denied. Nonetheless, evading extradition to another state is challenging. Prosecutors typically only need to establish that they have the correct individual in custody facing charges from the other state.
How Long Will This Process Take?
In some instances, suspects can be extradited within days. However, the process may extend over several months if contested by the defense. As of Wednesday, authorities in New York did not seem to be in a rush. To contest extradition, Mangione must file a petition in Pennsylvania by December 24.
By Maryclaire Dale
