A Minnesota man has been arrested and charged with multiple felonies after allegedly trying to impersonate an FBI agent in an attempt to free Luigi Mangione, currently held in a New York federal and state detention facility. The bizarre plot unfolded at a Manhattan jail, where the suspect presented fake credentials and demanded access to Mangione, prompting a rapid law enforcement response.

The incident occurred on January 29, 2026, at the Metropolitan Detention Center (MDC) in Brooklyn, where Mangione is being held without bail on charges stemming from a high-profile crime spree and alleged threats against public figures. According to the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Southern District of New York and NYPD reports, the 38-year-old suspect from Minneapolis claimed to be a federal special agent and insisted he needed to transport Mangione for an "urgent federal interview."

Correctional officers quickly grew suspicious due to inconsistencies in the suspect’s story and identification. When confronted, he attempted to flee but was detained without incident. A subsequent search uncovered a fake FBI badge, forged ID and paperwork, a loaded firearm, and handcuffs, items consistent with an escape attempt.

The suspect now faces a slate of serious federal and state charges, including impersonating a federal officer, conspiracy to commit escape, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a crime, as well as state-level charges of criminal impersonation and attempted escape.

Authorities emphasized that Mangione was not involved in the plot and that the suspect acted alone. The case has prompted scrutiny of jail security protocols, particularly given Mangione’s high-profile status and the potential for copycat attempts by supporters.

The U.S. Attorney's Office has pledged a thorough investigation. The suspect is being held without bail pending arraignment, while Mangione remains in custody.