Moscow, Idaho - Judge Steven Hippler rejected a motion from Bryan Kohberger's defense team seeking to remove the possibility of the death penalty from the case. The decision, announced Tuesday, allows prosecutors to continue pursuing capital punishment should Kohberger be convicted of the murders of four University of Idaho students in November 2022.
The defense argued that the death penalty should be removed, but Judge Hippler found their arguments unpersuasive. This ruling represents a significant win for the prosecution and a setback for Kohberger's legal team as they prepare for trial.
Kohberger is accused of entering an off-campus residence and fatally stabbing Kaylee Goncalves, Madison Mogen, Xana Kernodle, and Ethan Chapin. The case has garnered national attention, and the legal proceedings are being closely watched. The trial date has not yet been set.
Judge Rejects Kohberger's Bid to Avoid Death Penalty
An Idaho judge has denied a request from Bryan Kohberger's defense lawyers to take the death penalty off the table. Judge Steven Hippler ruled against the motion on Tuesday, meaning Kohberger could still face execution if convicted. Kohberger is accused of killing four University of Idaho students in November 2022. The decision marks another setback for the defense in the high-profile case.