Luigi Mangione asks fans to limit the number of photos they're sending

Mangione, 26, stated that he is ‘overwhelmed by – and grateful for – everyone who has written me to share their stories and express their support’.

‘Powerfully, this support has transcended political, racial, and even class divisions, as mail has flooded MDC (Metropolitan Detention Center) from across the country, and around the globe,’ read his statement on his legal defense information website.

‘While it is impossible for me to reply to most letters, please know that I read every one that I receive. Thank you again to everyone who took the time to write. I look forward to hearing more in the future.’

The frequently asked questions section of the site addresses whether supporters can send Mangione photos.

Federal Bureau of Prisons rules allow inmates to receive pictures through Shutterfly and FreePrints.

‘Due to the volume of photos, they could take longer than usual to be screened and shared,’ states the site.

‘Luigi appreciates the photos that are sent and kindly asks that people send no more than five photos at a time.’

All photos are screened and reviewed by law enforcement officials, as are letters.Mangione’s supporters on Friday waited for hours before he arrived for his first court appearance since his arraignment in order to get a live look at him. Some held stuffed toys of the video game character Luigi and others called for healthcare reform.

His lawyer, Karen Friedman Agnifilo, told the judge that he has been a ‘model prisoner’ at the notorious jail in Brooklyn and is being ‘treated differently than other defendants’. Mangione is being held at a federal prison despite his case proceeding first.

The Ivy League graduate has pleaded not guilty to shooting UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson outside a New York City hotel on December 4. He has been charged with a count of first-degree murder, two counts of second-degree murder and other weapon and forgery charges.

Mangione, who wore a bulletproof vest over a green sweater and white collared shirt, has amassed a large number of fans including people angered by health insurance company greed and female admirers who have deemed him good-looking.

His defense information site also states that he is allowed to write and receive letters in jail.