Luigi Mangione has had to issue a request to his fans, despite being in prison due to an ongoing murder case.
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Mangione, currently held at Brooklyn’s Metropolitan Detention Center, is facing charges in New York, Pennsylvania, and federal court.
He stands accused of fatally shooting UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, a crime for which he has pleaded not guilty at the state level.
Despite the severity of the accusations, Mangione has amassed widespread support, particularly among those critical of the U.S. private healthcare system.
His legal defense fund has now exceeded $500,000 in donations.
His legal team has also requested that supporters refrain from sending books, citing the overwhelming volume of packages.
“He is very appreciative, but kindly asks that people temporarily refrain from sending more books,” a statement on his defense website reads.
A frequently asked questions section on Mangione’s defense website addresses whether supporters can send him photos.
While federal prison rules allow inmates to receive pictures through services such as Shutterfly and FreePrints, the volume of submissions has led to delays.
“Due to the volume of photos, they could take longer than usual to be screened and shared,” the site states.
The site further advises supporters to limit submissions. “Luigi appreciates the photos that are sent and kindly asks that people send no more than five photos at a time.”
As with all inmate correspondence, letters and photos sent to Mangione are screened by law enforcement before reaching him.
Mangione’s supporters gathered outside the courthouse on Friday, some waiting for hours to see him during his first appearance since his arraignment, per Metro.
Some held plush toys resembling the video game character Luigi, while others voiced their calls for healthcare reform.
His attorney, Karen Friedman Agnifilo, told the judge that Mangione has been a “model prisoner” while in custody and argued that he is being “treated differently than other defendants.”
Mangione recently issued a statement from jail, thanking those who have written to him.
“I am overwhelmed by – and grateful for – everyone who has written me to share their stories and express their support,” he said.
He emphasized the diverse backgrounds of those reaching out, adding: “Powerfully, this support has transcended political, racial, and even class divisions, as mail has flooded MDC from across the country, and around the globe.”
Although he cannot respond to all letters, he reassured supporters that their messages are being read.
“While it is impossible for me to reply to most letters, please know that I read every one that I receive,” he stated. “Thank you again to everyone who took the time to write. I look forward to hearing more in the future.”