The University of Idaho murder suspect Bryan Kohberger arrives in Boise for his first court appearance after a successful motion for change of venue. A new judge will take over the case and prepare for the upcoming trial, which could result in the death penalty if convicted.
As the University of Idaho murder case enters a new chapter, Bryan Kohberger, the 29-year-old criminology Ph.D. student accused of killing four undergrads, is preparing to face a new court in Boise.
After a successful motion for a change of venue, the case against Kohberger has been moved to Ada County. Judge Steven Hippler will now preside over the proceedings, marking the beginning of a new phase in the case that could potentially end with the death penalty.
Bryan Kohberger's Case Moves to Boise as Trial Prepares for New Phase
"It's just a check-in, since the case was moved, and probably just to let the parties know what he expects going forward," said Edwina Elcox, a Boise-based defense attorney not involved in the case.
Despite the routine nature of the initial hearing, experts anticipate that Judge Hippler will quickly assert his authority and establish his expectations for both the prosecution and defense.
Bryan Kohberger's Case Moves to Boise as Trial Prepares for New Phase
"The judge will introduce himself," said David Gelman, a New Jersey-based defense attorney who has been following the case closely. "They have to get familiar with everything and what motions are still left to do... I'm sure they already have a good idea, but when you change venue, it's chaotic. Not saying it resets everything, but it definitely makes the case take a couple steps back."
Previously, Judge John Judge of Latah County presided over the arraignment and entered not guilty pleas on Kohberger's behalf. His attorneys have since requested that the possibility of the death penalty be dismissed.
Bryan Kohberger's Case Moves to Boise as Trial Prepares for New Phase
A hearing on the capital punishment issue has been scheduled for November 7, nearly two years after the slayings. Prosecutors allege that on November 13, 2022, Kohberger entered an off-campus house around 4 a.m. with a large knife and killed Madison Mogen, 21, Kaylee Goncalves, 21, Xana Kernodle, 20, and Ethan Chapin, 20.
Evidence presented in court includes a DNA sample on a knife sheath found at the crime scene, cellphone records, and video showing the movements of Kohberger's car. Two additional roommates were not attacked, and one of them reportedly froze as she witnessed a masked man leaving through the back door.
Bryan Kohberger's Case Moves to Boise as Trial Prepares for New Phase
The trial has already been delayed and is now expected to begin in June 2025. As the case progresses, Judge Hippler will play a pivotal role in ensuring a fair trial while also maintaining the momentum of the prosecution's pursuit of justice for the victims and their families.
