In a critical development in the Idaho murder case, a judge has decided not to delay the trial of Bryan Kohberger, who stands accused of killing four University of Idaho students. During a session on Thursday, the Fourth District Judge, Steven Hippler, confirmed that jury selection will get underway in August, with opening arguments anticipated around August 18.
Judge Hippler also dismissed the defense’s intention to introduce the possibility of “alternate perpetrators” to the jury, stating unequivocally that the defense’s evidence has no substantial relevance. Hippler elaborated, highlighting the absence of any link between the suggested individuals and the crime, and noted that conjecture would be required to claim any such involvement.
Kohberger, who previously studied criminal justice at Washington State University, faces multiple murder charges. Prosecutors allege he entered a rented home near the University of Idaho campus in Moscow, Idaho, and tragically took the lives of Ethan Chapin, Xana Kernodle, Madison Mogen, and Kaylee Goncalves on November 13, 2022. Although Kohberger remained silent at his arraignment, a not guilty plea was entered by the judge. The prosecution is pursuing the death penalty in this high-profile case.
His defense attorney, Anne Taylor, requested a trial delay, arguing that a summer commencement could compromise Kohberger’s right to a fair trial given ongoing evidence reviews and challenges in securing witness interviews. Additionally, Taylor pointed out that significant media coverage could jeopardize an impartial trial, suggesting that postponing the trial might contribute to a more balanced jury.
Yet, Judge Hippler emphasized that the publicity surrounding the case has only escalated. He reasoned that delays would provide more room for media speculation rather than clarity. Prolonging the wait for the public would allow unfounded stories to persist and distract from the forthcoming trial facts.
On the subject of alternate suspects, Hippler rejected the defense’s proposal to present evidence regarding four individuals, as it was riddled with uncertainty unlikely to contribute positively to the trial, already set to span approximately three months. The identities of these individuals were withheld, though Hippler mentioned that three had personal links with the victims and were in proximity on the day of the crime. Another individual had simply crossed paths with one victim before the incident. Nonetheless, all four had cooperated during investigations, and their DNA was found unrelated to crime scene samples, indicating no viable connection to the murders.
Judge Hippler concluded that there is a glaring lack of credible evidence linking these people to the murder. The process of jury selection is scheduled to commence on August 4, followed by the trial proceedings expected to start two weeks thereafter.