A Minnesota man has been arrested after authorities say he attempted to secure the release of Luigi Mangione by impersonating a federal law enforcement officer. According to officials, the incident occurred Wednesday night at the Metropolitan Detention Center in New York City.
Authorities said the man arrived at the facility claiming to be an FBI agent and told officers he had a court order authorizing Mangione’s release. Jail staff determined the claim was false. The individual was taken into custody shortly after the interaction.
The suspect was identified as Mark Anderson, 36, of Mankato, Minnesota. He was charged with impersonating a federal agent in what prosecutors described as a failed attempt to free an inmate from federal custody.
Mangione remains detained at the facility while awaiting state and federal murder trials in connection with the killing of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson.
Criminal Complaint Did Not Initially Name Inmate
A criminal complaint filed against Anderson did not initially identify the individual he attempted to free. However, a law enforcement official familiar with the investigation later confirmed the inmate was Mangione.
The official was not authorized to speak publicly and shared the information on the condition of anonymity. Authorities have not disclosed whether Anderson had any prior connection to Mangione or how he obtained access to the detention center before being stopped.
According to the complaint, Anderson allegedly presented himself as a federal agent and referenced a court order that did not exist. Officials said standard verification procedures revealed the claim was invalid, prompting his arrest.
The Metropolitan Detention Center is a federal facility operated by the Bureau of Prisons and houses inmates awaiting trial or serving sentences for federal crimes. Security protocols require verification of all law enforcement credentials and court documentation before any inmate release.
Legal Proceedings and Court Appearance
Authorities said Anderson is expected to make an initial appearance Thursday in Brooklyn federal court. As of the latest update, online court records did not list an attorney who could speak on his behalf.
A message seeking comment was left with a spokesperson for Mangione’s legal team. No public response has been issued.
Prosecutors have not announced whether additional charges may be filed. Officials have also not indicated whether the case is being investigated as part of a larger effort or considered an isolated incident.
Mangione remains in custody at the Metropolitan Detention Center. His upcoming court proceedings are expected to continue as scheduled.
Background on Luigi Mangione’s Case
Luigi Mangione is currently facing both state and federal murder charges in connection with the killing of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson. Prosecutors allege Mangione was responsible for Thompson’s death, though details surrounding the case have not been fully disclosed publicly.Mangione has been held at the Metropolitan Detention Center while awaiting trial. The facility has housed several high-profile defendants over the years and is known for strict security measures.
Officials have not stated whether the attempted impersonation had any impact on Mangione’s detention conditions or legal status.
