A judge has decided that the possibility of the death penalty will remain on the table for a man accused of murdering four University of Idaho students. This ruling was made on Wednesday by Judge Steven Hippler, who chose not to accept the defense’s arguments for removing this option should Bryan Kohberger be found guilty in the case.

Kohberger’s defense attorneys contended that the death penalty is out of step with contemporary decency standards, asserting that it is inhumane to keep death row inmates waiting for decades before execution. They also argued that it contravenes an international treaty against the torture of inmates. However, prosecutors highlighted that the Idaho Supreme Court has previously dismissed similar arguments in other capital punishment cases, supporting the continued use of the death penalty.

Bryan Kohberger is facing charges related to the brutal stabbings of Ethan Chapin, Xana Kernodle, Madison Mogen, and Kaylee Goncalves on November 13, 2022. Authorities claim to have tied him to the crime through various pieces of evidence, including DNA located on a knife sheath found at the scene, as well as surveillance footage and cellphone data.

The defense has maintained that Kohberger was merely out for a drive that evening to gaze at the sky, a routine he often followed. When prompted to enter a plea last year, Kohberger remained silent, which led to the court assigning a not-guilty plea on his behalf.

His trial is slated to commence next August, with an estimated duration of up to three months. Prosecutors have indicated their intention to pursue the death penalty if Kohberger is convicted of the charges against him.