Attorneys representing Bryan Kohberger, accused of murdering four University of Idaho students in 2022, are continuing their effort to relocate his trial from Latah County, arguing that local sentiment against him resembles a “mob mentality.”
In a recent court submission, Kohberger’s defense cited alarming statements from Latah County residents, gathered via a defense expert’s survey.
These comments suggested potential violence if Kohberger were acquitted, with one resident predicting riots and another threatening to “burn the courthouse down.”
Kohberger’s lawyers are pushing to move the trial to Boise, 300 miles away, asserting that 70% of local residents have already prejudged Kohberger’s guilt.
However, prosecutors argue that media coverage extends well beyond Latah County and that relocating the trial might not resolve the issue.
The decision on whether to move the trial will be made by Latah County District Judge John C. Judge on August 27. If the trial is moved, it could delay its start.
The trial is currently set for June 2, 2025, following Kohberger’s waiver of his right to a speedy trial.
The proceedings have faced delays due to various pre-trial motions and the scheduling of hearings.
The case has been complicated by issues such as the handling of evidence and the potential use of investigative genetic genealogy.
Kohberger, a Ph.D. student from Washington State University, was charged with the murders of Kaylee Goncalves, Madison Mogen, Xana Kernodle, and Ethan Chapin. He has pleaded not guilty to the charges.
