Defense and prosecutors dispute responsibility for press access
Mangione’s lawyers alleged that state court officials and prosecutors created a media plan, including decisions about which reporters would receive seats, without consulting the defense.
The defense did not cite specific evidence for the allegation. Prosecutors said they had no role in choosing reporters or deciding whether an overflow room would be provided.
The New York state court system has not provided an overflow room for the press and public interested in the proceedings. Mangione’s lawyers later submitted a letter clarifying their position but continued to request a hearing on media access.
The case has attracted international attention following Thompson’s death and renewed discussion of the United States’ for-profit healthcare system. Some of Mangione’s supporters have used social media to portray him as a folk hero, according to the report.