Columnist Discusses Public Reactions to UnitedHealthcare CEO Killing

A Washington Times opinion column explores how some people justify stealing from large companies and the December 2024 killing of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson. The column recounts an anecdote about a reporter's colleague who admitted to filing a false insurance claim for a stolen camera.

It uses the story to introduce the idea of rationalizing theft from corporations. The piece states that Luigi Mangione is accused of shooting Thompson in the back on a Manhattan street on December 4, 2024. 5 million in donations and that supporters have held rallies outside the New York courthouse.

The column notes that Mangione's next court appearance is scheduled for Monday. It says thousands of people have sent letters and gifts, and merchandise with his image is available online. The article references a Wall Street Journal column by psychotherapist Jonathan Alpert that discusses how frustration aimed at corporations can shift moral judgments.

It also mentions comments by Hasan Piker on a New York Times podcast justifying the killing. The column states that Piker has expressed views on topics including the September 11 attacks, the American flag, and landlords. It adds that Piker is associated with New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani's circle.