# NYC Mayor Accused of Politicizing Murder Suspect's Arrest

**Luigi Mangione**, accused of murdering UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, had his lawyer claim that New York City Mayor Eric Adams is politicizing his arrest.  Mangione pleaded not guilty to murder charges at his arraignment.

<img src="https://i.insider.com/676980719de00e389eb2ff7e?width=700" alt="Luigi Mangione at his arraignment on state murder charges.">

The defense's claim centers around the perceived political nature of Mangione's arrest and subsequent media coverage.  They suggest the Mayor's actions are impacting the fairness of the trial.

This high-profile case continues to unfold with significant implications for the NYC justice system and the ongoing debate around political influence in criminal proceedings.  Further developments are anticipated.


Luigi Mangione pleaded not guilty to murder charges at his state arraignment Monday.

NYC Mayor Accused of Politicizing Arrest of Murder Suspect!

# NYC Arraignment: Suspect in UnitedHealth CEO's Murder Appears in Court

**Luigi Mangione**, the suspect in the murder of **UnitedHealth Group chief executive Brian Thompson**, appeared in Manhattan Supreme Court on December 23rd for his arraignment.

<img src="https://example.com/mangione_arraignment.jpg" alt="Luigi Mangione at his arraignment">

The arraignment comes after Mangione's arrest in connection with Thompson's death.  Details surrounding the case remain limited, but the gravity of the situation is evident given the high-profile nature of the victim and the seriousness of the charges.

Further updates on the case are expected as the legal proceedings continue. The court appearance marked a significant development in the ongoing investigation.

## Key Developments:

* **Arraignment Date:** December 23rd
* **Location:** Manhattan Supreme Court
* **Suspect:** Luigi Mangione
* **Victim:** Brian Thompson, CEO of UnitedHealth Group
* **Charges:** Murder (further details pending)

This high-profile case continues to unfold, and we will provide further updates as they become available.

Luigi Mangione, the suspect in the killing of UnitedHealth Group chief executive Brian Thompson, appears in Manhattan Supreme Court for his arraignment hearing in New York City, Dec. 23.

NYC Arraignment: Suspect in UnitedHealth CEO's Murder Appears in Court

# Horrific NYC Subway Attack: Man Charged with Murder

**A 33-year-old man, Sebastian Zapeta, has been charged with first-degree murder and arson after allegedly setting a woman on fire on an F train in Coney Island.** The victim, who was sleeping on the subway, died at the scene.  

<img src="https://assets1.cbsnewsstatic.com/hub/i/r/2024/12/22/45ac43c4-ade2-4c5d-94bb-592bd3ea3c77/thumbnail/620x349/eb7cd61df03f48570b8d9154ca977423/3268-24-homicide-photo-of-male-3.jpg?v=fa9977353833f46f40b07abcd9d5240b#" alt="Suspect Photo">

Zapeta was identified by three teenagers who recognized him from NYPD photos.  Body camera footage and subway car cameras captured him watching the woman burn.  Police apprehended him at the 34th Street-Herald Square station with a lighter in his pocket, wearing the same clothes seen in the security footage.

## The Victim and the Attack

The incident occurred around 7:30 a.m. on Sunday at the Coney Island-Stillwell Avenue station.  According to NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch, Zapeta used a lighter to ignite the victim's clothing.

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/VIDEO_ID" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>

Investigators say Zapeta did not know the victim and there was no prior interaction between them.

## Zapeta's Immigration Status

Immigration officials revealed that Zapeta is an unlawfully present Guatemalan citizen. He was previously deported to Guatemala in 2018 but re-entered the U.S. at an unknown time and place. ICE will place an immigration detainer against him.

<img src="https://assets2.cbsnewsstatic.com/hub/i/r/2024/12/23/7db32a5a-fce0-4052-857b-9e4eb0316cb3/thumbnail/620x349/52127ad6200276d8f5172a1772780db4/westbrook-430am-vo-cone-wcbsci3d-hi-res-still.jpg?v=fa9977353833f46f40b07abcd9d5240b#" alt="Additional Photo">

Brooklyn District Attorney Eric Gonzalez stated that his office is committed to bringing Zapeta to justice and ensuring accountability for this horrific crime.

## Key Players

| Name                     | Role                                      |
|--------------------------|------------------------------------------|
| Sebastian Zapeta         | **Suspect, charged with murder and arson** |
| Jessica Tisch            | NYPD Commissioner                         |
| Eric Gonzalez            | Brooklyn District Attorney                |
| Three Teenagers          | Key witnesses who identified the suspect |



Sebastian Zapeta, 33, was charged with murder and arson after a woman sleeping on the New York City subway was set on fire and died, police say.

Horrific NYC Subway Attack: Man Charged with Murder After Setting Woman on Fire

# NYC Subway Horror: Woman Set Ablaze, Suspect Arrested

**A horrific incident unfolded on a New York City subway train, leaving a woman dead after being intentionally set on fire.**  Sebastian Zapeta, 33, has been arrested and charged with murder and arson.

## The Attack

On Sunday morning, a woman was approached and set ablaze by Zapeta on an F train in Brooklyn.  Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch described the attack as "one of the most depraved crimes" imaginable.  Responding officers found the victim "fully engulfed in flames" and, despite their efforts, she was pronounced dead at the scene.

<img src="https://www.usatoday.com/gcdn/authoring/authoring-images/2024/12/22/USAT/77158607007-usatsi-25043920.jpg?crop=2397,1350,x1,y249&width=660&height=372&format=pjpg&auto=webp" alt="Image of the scene">

## The Arrest

Zapeta was apprehended later that day.  Surveillance footage, along with bodycam footage from responding officers, played a crucial role in identifying him.  Critically, three high school students reported seeing a man matching Zapeta's description on another train, leading to his arrest.  He was found with a lighter in his pocket.

## The Suspect's Background

Authorities revealed Zapeta is a Guatemalan national who had previously been deported in 2018 but re-entered the U.S. illegally.

## Subway Safety Concerns

This incident comes amidst ongoing efforts to improve subway safety in New York City, including the deployment of additional National Guard members and the installation of thousands of security cameras on subway trains.  While overall transit crime is down this year compared to 2023, the severity of this attack highlights the need for continued vigilance and safety measures.

## Mayor and Governor's Response

Mayor Eric Adams expressed gratitude to those involved in the apprehension of Zapeta, emphasizing the city's commitment to swift justice for victims of violent crimes.  Governor Kathy Hochul also issued a statement, highlighting the role of new security cameras in the arrest and reaffirming the ongoing commitment to subway safety.

[Read more about the ongoing efforts to improve NYC subway safety](https://www.example.com/subwaysafety)  (Example link - replace with actual link if available)



A suspect is in custody after the incident on an F train in Brooklyn on Sunday morning. Officers found a woman "fully engulfed in flames."

NYC Subway Horror: Woman Set Ablaze, Suspect Arrested

# NYC's Must-See Art Exhibitions This Holiday Season

Escape the holiday hustle and treat yourself to a captivating journey through the world of art with these phenomenal exhibitions in New York City:

## 1. Deshaun Price at 15 Orient

![Deshaun Price artwork](https://i0.wp.com/hyperallergic-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2024/12/IMG_4662-1200x900.jpg?resize=780%2C585&quality=90&ssl=1)

**Deshaun Price's** evocative portraits at 15 Orient in Tribeca explore themes of closeness, distance, solitude, and togetherness, leaving viewers with thought-provoking questions about their place in the world.  The unfinished quality of both the gallery and artwork adds to its unique charm.

* **Location:** 72 Walker Street, 3rd floor, Tribeca, Manhattan
* **Dates:** Through January 4, 2025

## 2. Thomas Schütte Retrospective at MoMA

![Thomas Schütte artwork](https://i0.wp.com/hyperallergic-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2024/12/Schutte-1200x800.jpeg?resize=780%2C520&quality=90&ssl=1)

This large retrospective of **Thomas Schütte's** work showcases his sculptures, often infused with subtle humor, that humanize sometimes-staid forms.  The exhibition features his intriguing *Melonely* series, a playful exploration of shape and meaning.

* **Location:** Museum of Modern Art, 11 West 53rd Street, Midtown, Manhattan
* **Dates:** Through January 18, 2025

## 3. Alexandra Exter: The Stage Is a World at The Ukrainian Museum

![Alexandra Exter artwork](https://i0.wp.com/hyperallergic-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2024/12/Exter5-1200x896.jpg?resize=780%2C582&quality=90&ssl=1)

Discover the multifaceted talent of **Alexandra Exter**, a pivotal figure in early 20th-century avant-garde art. This exhibition presents over 30 works, encompassing painting, drawing, costume design, and film, showcasing her unique aesthetic blending various styles and eras.

* **Location:** The Ukrainian Museum, 222 East 6th Street, East Village, Manhattan
* **Dates:** Through January 19, 2025

## 4. Vital Signs: Artists and the Body at MoMA

![Vital Signs exhibition](https://i0.wp.com/hyperallergic-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2024/12/DSC01063-1200x866.jpeg?resize=780%2C563&quality=90&ssl=1)

This cerebral exhibition explores the human body and our connections with each other through diverse artistic expressions, offering a thought-provoking and engaging experience.

* **Location:** Museum of Modern Art, 11 West 53rd Street, Midtown, Manhattan
* **Dates:** Through February 22, 2025

## 5. Ceremonies Out of the Air: Ralph Lemon at MoMA PS1

![Ralph Lemon exhibition](https://i0.wp.com/hyperallergic-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2024/12/DSC01974-1200x800.jpeg?resize=780%2C520&quality=90&ssl=1)

Immerse yourself in the world of renowned choreographer **Ralph Lemon**, where visual and performance art intertwine. This retrospective includes a four-channel video and sound installation, drawings, sculptures, and special performances.

* **Location:** MoMA PS1, 22–25 Jackson Avenue, Long Island City, Queens
* **Dates:** Through March 24, 2025

## 6. Above Ground: Art from the Martin Wong Graffiti Collection at the Museum of the City of New York

![Above Ground exhibition](https://i0.wp.com/hyperallergic-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2024/12/Graffiti-0074-LEE-Breakfast_at_Baychester-1-copy-1200x942.jpg?resize=780%2C612&quality=90&ssl=1)

A unique collection of graffiti art amassed by artist **Martin Wong**, showcasing the raw energy and aesthetic innovation of this transformative movement. Featuring works by iconic artists like Rammellzee, Lee Quiñones, and Lady Pink.

* **Location:** Museum of the City of New York, 1220 Fifth Avenue, East Harlem, Manhattan
* **Dates:** Through August 10, 2025

Take a break from the holiday chaos and replenish yourself with funny, dynamic, and subtle art by Thomas Schütte, Ralph Lemon, Alexandra Exter, and others.

NYC's Hottest Art Exhibitions This Holiday Season: A Must-See Guide

# White Christmas in NYC? Here's What to Expect

Will New York City experience a White Christmas this year?  The chances are slim for Central Park, as it's been 15 years since the last one. However, there's still hope for some parts of the tri-state area thanks to a clipper system moving through on Christmas Eve.

![Snow in NYC](https://media.nbcnewyork.com/2024/12/image_e4477a.png?resize=218%2C123&quality=85&strip=all)

The National Weather Service defines a White Christmas as having at least 1 inch of snow on the ground by 7 a.m. on Christmas Day.  While some areas will see light snowfall, Central Park is unlikely to meet this criteria.

## Snow Predictions

Expect 1-3 inches of snow in higher elevations like the Poconos and Catskills on Christmas Eve morning, with less than an inch in other areas.  This snow will likely stick due to sub-freezing temperatures.

![Snow Map](https://media.nbcnewyork.com/2024/12/12-23-snow-map.png?resize=218%2C123&quality=85&strip=all)

## Travel Advisory

Roads will be slippery Tuesday morning.  Major highways should be treated but smaller residential streets will be slushy and slick. Please **drive slowly and cautiously**.

## Melting Snow

Temperatures will rise above freezing Tuesday afternoon, causing the snow to melt rapidly.  Many areas will be snow-free by Tuesday afternoon.

![Melting snow](https://media.nbcnewyork.com/2024/12/image_113d8a.png?resize=218%2C123&quality=85&strip=all)

## White Christmas Outlook

Areas north and west of NYC, particularly Northwest New Jersey, the Poconos, and Catskills, have a higher chance of a White Christmas.  The closer you are to the coast, the lower the chances become.  NYC's chances are only 13%.

![White Christmas probability](https://media.nbcnewyork.com/2024/12/image_844709.png?resize=218%2C123&quality=85&strip=all)



Will we get a White Christmas? Well, in the NYC area, it all depends where you'll be.

White Christmas in NYC? Snow Chances & Holiday Travel Forecast

# NYC Mayor Adams' Ally to Plead Guilty in Campaign Finance Scandal

A Brooklyn businessman, identified as "Businessman-5" in the indictment against NYC Mayor Eric Adams, will plead guilty to a conspiracy charge related to illegal campaign contributions.  This development significantly impacts the ongoing federal investigation into Mayor Adams.

**The Key Player:**

Erden Arkan, a prominent figure in New York's Turkish community and co-owner of KSK construction, is the businessman in question.  Prosecutors allege Arkan engaged in wire fraud by funneling illegal campaign contributions through straw donors.  These contributions were then amplified by the city's matching funds program.

**The Allegations:**

The indictment claims that Arkan made illegal campaign contributions to Mayor Adams, who allegedly solicited these funds.  Subsequently, Arkan allegedly sought favors from Adams, including influencing the fire department to expedite the opening of a Turkish consulate. 

**The Fallout:**

This plea deal follows a series of investigations and resignations within Mayor Adams' administration, including his police commissioner, schools chancellor, deputy mayors, and director of Asian affairs. Mayor Adams himself has pleaded not guilty to bribery and other charges and maintains his innocence, facing trial in April.



A Brooklyn businessman identified only as “Businessman-5” in an indictment against New York City Mayor Eric Adams plans to plead guilty to a conspiracy...

NYC Mayor Adams' Ally to Plead Guilty in Campaign Finance Scandal

# NYC CEO Murder Suspect Pleads Not Guilty Amidst Political Accusations

Luigi Mangione, accused of murdering UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, pleaded not guilty on Monday to eleven state charges, including first-degree murder and terrorism.  His defense lawyer, Karen Agnifilo, vehemently criticized the NYPD and Mayor Eric Adams for staging what she called “perfectly choreographed, utterly political” perp walks, expressing deep concern for Mangione's right to a fair trial.  

<img src="https://media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com/image/upload/t_fit-760w,f_auto,q_auto:best/rockcms/2024-12/241223-luigi-mangione-mn-1020-4f0e02.jpg" alt="Luigi Mangione appears in Manhattan Supreme Court in New York on Monday." height="1334" width="2000">

**Key accusations against Mangione include:**

*   First-degree murder
*   Act of terrorism
*   Criminal possession of a weapon
*   Forgery (for using a fake ID)

Mangione, currently held without bail in federal custody, remains incarcerated.  His next court date is set for February 21st.

The Mayor's office defended its actions, stating that public safety is the priority and that the case shouldn't glorify violence.  Agnifilo, however, argues the high-profile nature of Mangione's arrest could compromise his ability to receive a fair trial.

This high-profile case continues to unfold, raising questions about the balance between public safety and the rights of the accused.

Luigi Mangione pleaded not guilty Monday to New York state charges in the killing of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, as his defense complained about police parading him in “perp walks” that are “perfectly choreographed, utterly political.”

NYC Mayor Accused of Politicizing Arrest of Murder Suspect!

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NYC Mayor Accused of Politicizing Murder Suspect's Arrest

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NYC Arraignment: Suspect in UnitedHealth CEO's Murder Appears in Court

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