In Boise, Idaho, a status hearing for Bryan Kohberger, charged with the murder of four University of Idaho students, attracted a crowd eager for seats in the courtroom.
This hearing marked the first since the case was moved approximately 300 miles from Moscow, Idaho, due to concerns about finding an impartial jury amid intense media scrutiny and emotional local sentiments.
Kohberger, accused of fatally stabbing Ethan Chapin, Xana Kernodle, Madison Mogen, and Kaylee Goncalves on November 13, 2022, had previously stood silent when asked to enter a plea, resulting in a not-guilty plea being entered on his behalf.
Prosecutors are pursuing the death penalty if he is convicted.
The case was reassigned to Judge Steven Hippler, who emphasized civility among the attorneys and adherence to a gag order established by the previous judge.
The trial is currently set to begin in June 2025, with a duration of three to four months anticipated.
Judge Hippler expressed concerns about the trial’s timing over the summer and suggested potential adjustments, either moving it to May or delaying it until September.
Defense attorney Ann Taylor indicated that the defense team has engaged a new mitigation expert following the death of their previous expert, which may require additional preparation time.
A written order is expected to follow the closed hearing to finalize the new trial date.