By Joanna Putman
Police1
ALTOONA, Pa. — The Altoona Police Department is investigating threats made against officers and local residents involved in the arrest of 26-year-old Luigi Mangione, who has been charged with the murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson in New York City, WTAJ reported.
Mangione was arrested Dec. 9 at a McDonald’s after a customer recognized him and alerted an employee, who then contacted police, according to the report. Deputy Chief Derek Swope confirmed during a news conference that threats have been made against those connected to the arrest.
“This is clearly a very polarized case,” Swope said. “We’ve received threats against our officers and building, as well as some citizens in our community. We’re investigating and following up on all threats.”
When apprehended, Mangione was found with a firearm believed to be 3D-printed with a silencer, a Faraday bag and several fake identification cards, including one allegedly used to check into a New York City hostel before the shooting, according to the report. In addition to the New York charges, Mangione faces felony forgery and weapons charges in Altoona.
Police said there is no timeline for Mangione’s extradition to New York and that body camera footage of his arrest will not be released due to the ongoing investigation, Newsweek reported.
Altoona officers are working with state police to piece together Mangione’s movements in Pennsylvania before his capture, while state authorities focus on tracing his actions leading up to the alleged crime, according to WTAJ.
The case has drawn significant attention, including backlash against the McDonald’s where the arrest occurred, which has been targeted with negative online reviews. Altoona police continue to monitor threats and assist with the broader investigation while prioritizing community safety, according to the report.
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