Prosecutors are seeking to present a college paper written by Bryan Kohberger, the man accused of the killings of four University of Idaho students, as evidence in the upcoming trial. The paper, titled “Crime-scene Scenario Final,” was written in 2020 while Kohberger was a student at DeSales University in Pennsylvania. It details various aspects of crime scene investigation, including securing the scene, collecting evidence, and preserving the chain of custody.
The killings of Ethan Chapin, Xana Kernodle, Madison Mogen, and Kaylee Goncalves, who were stabbed to death in their rental home near campus in Moscow, Idaho, have shocked the community. Autopsies revealed that the victims were likely asleep when they were attacked, with some showing defensive wounds and multiple stab wounds.
Kohberger, facing four counts of murder in the Nov. 13, 2022, stabbings, could potentially face the death penalty if convicted. His trial is set to begin on Aug. 11, with pretrial motions scheduled for April 9. The defense has raised concerns about the possibility of a fair trial in the original county due to the high-profile nature of the case, leading to a change in venue to Boise.
The court has imposed a gag order on all involved parties, and no cameras will be allowed in the courtroom during the trial. Discussions during the upcoming hearing will include whether Kohberger’s autism spectrum disorder diagnosis would affect his eligibility for the death penalty and the admissibility of a 911 call made by two housemates after the killings.
