Inmate’s Life and Relationships at Brooklyn Detention Center

Luigi Mangion has a unique role in the federal detention center where he cleans the shower. Fellow inmates describe him as a sort of unofficial greeter.

When Michael Dadia arrived at the Brooklyn Metropolitan Detention Center, he was informed by security that he would share a unit with the man accused of murdering UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson. Dadia shared this experience in a video he posted online.

“I thought, ‘Great, a tough guy,’” he noted, before saying he was met by Luigi, who greeted him warmly. “Luigi introduced himself, and I thought it was really nice,” he added.

Dadia is facing federal charges for manufacturing over 25 “ghost guns,” while Thompson was reportedly killed by Mangion on December 4th on a Midtown sidewalk.

The Brooklyn U.S. Attorney’s Office has stated that Dadia was released on $250,000 bail shortly after being arrested in early March, spending only a couple of nights in the facility.

Dadia mentioned that a fellow inmate dubbed “V” didn’t waste time establishing a friendship with Mangion.

“I’m going to go over and wave to Luigi. It was an honor to meet him,” Dadia expressed.

He speculated that perhaps Mangion recognized him as just another white guy. “I think he must have seen me and thought, ‘Well, here we go again,’” Dadia theorized.

According to Dadia’s lawyer, Mangion has been described as a “model prisoner.” Dadia elaborated that jobs in the prison system can carry a certain respect, noting that Mangion was in charge of cleaning the showers.

“These roles can be important,” he mentioned, comparing them to other tasks like cooking or cleaning food trays.

When not on clean-up duty, Mangion apparently spends his time searching for news about himself. “He gets the New York newspapers daily and checks for any articles,” Dadia said, referring to a clip he posted online.

Dadia also shared how he and Mangion participated in Ash Wednesday traditions, noting, “We did that together when a priest came in. We shared meals regularly too.”

While Dadia didn’t elaborate further when contacted for comments, he indicated that Mangion has a court date coming up.

In a message sent from prison, Mangion expressed gratitude for various small comforts. He listed items like a music catalog, special meals, and the many books and letters he received.

Mangion mentioned his cellmate, J, who helps him manage the clutter of his papers and offers words of wisdom. He also appreciated the support from the detention staff and corrections officers, even referencing movies like “The Shawshank Redemption.”

He thanked supporters who have contributed to his needs, enabling him to access items like tablets and hygiene products, as well as some favorite food items.

Mangion has pleaded not guilty to the charge of first-degree murder.