Attorneys question probable cause in Bryan Kohberger murder case
Attorneys for Bryan Kohberger have raised concerns about the probable cause in his case, emphasizing that two DNA samples linked to the 2022 murders of four University of Idaho students remain unidentified.
According to the Idaho Statesman, two blood samples discovered in the Moscow home belong to two males whose identities are still unknown. Kohberger's defense also mentioned unidentified DNA found on a glove outside the residence.
The specific type of DNA recovered from the glove was not revealed during the recent hearing.
Prosecutors asserted that Kohberger's DNA was detected on a knife sheath located near the bodies of Madison Mogen and Kaylee Goncalves, a point that Ada County Judge Steven Hippler emphasized during a hearing.
Hippler questioned the defense, asking, "How does that, even if disclosed, preclude a finding of probable cause when there's a DNA match between the DNA on the sheath and Mr. Kohberger?" He further stated, "Isn't that probable cause every day and twice on Sunday?"
The defense also alleged that prosecutors had withheld evidence concerning the unidentified DNA samples to secure a warrant for Kohberger's arrest.
In September, Kohberger's trial was relocated from Latah County to Boise in Ada County due to concerns over publicity and media attention that could compromise his right to a fair trial. The ruling was upheld by the state supreme court, which also highlighted the Latah County courthouse's limited space and insufficient police security.
Kohberger, a former Washington State University student, is accused of murdering Ethan Chapin, Xana Kernodle, Mogen, and Goncalves on November 13, 2022, at an off-campus residence near the university.
Kohberger's defense contends he was not present at the crime scene and was driving alone at the time of the stabbings.
Mogen and Goncalves were found deceased in bed together, with a knife sheath located near their bodies. Meanwhile, Kernodle and her boyfriend Chapin were discovered murdered on the second floor. Two surviving roommates subsequently notified law enforcement.
Law enforcement stated Kohberger had visited the area 12 times prior to the murders and switched off his phone on the night the incidents occurred.
DNA from a trash can outside Kohberger's family home in Pennsylvania was tested against DNA found on the knife sheath at the crime scene, revealing that "at least 99.9998% of the male population would be expected to be excluded from the possibility of being the suspect's biological father."
At the time of the killings, Kohberger was pursuing a Ph.D. in criminology at Washington State University, situated 10 miles from the crime scene. He was arrested in Pennsylvania in December 2022 after returning from a holiday road trip with his father.
Latah County has agreed to cover the financial costs associated with the high-profile trial, despite it being held in Ada County. Kohberger's trial is scheduled to commence in August.
