The trial of Bryan Kohberger, accused of a quadruple murder in Boise, Idaho, has been postponed by two months, as ruled by a judge on Wednesday.
Kohberger, 29, faces four counts of first-degree murder and one count of felony burglary related to the 2022 stabbings of University of Idaho students Madison Mogen, Kaylee Goncalves, Xana Kernodle, and Ethan Chapin at an off-campus residence.
Initially set to commence in June 2025, the trial will now begin on August 11, with jury selection slated for July 31. It is expected to continue until November 7.
This adjustment follows District Judge Steven Hippler’s concerns about the original timeline clashing with summer vacations, which could complicate juror availability. This hearing marked Kohberger’s first appearance in Ada County court.
During the hearing, Hippler proposed new start dates, with prosecutors advocating for an earlier May option and the defense pushing for a September start.
The trial venue shifted from Latah County to Ada County last month, a decision favoring the defense. Judge Hippler took over the case once it relocated.
The trial will run Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to approximately 3:30 p.m., including a 45-minute lunch break. Some weeks may be shortened due to other court obligations.
If convicted, Kohberger could face the death penalty. The defense has challenged the constitutionality of such a sentence in various motions.
Prosecutors have indicated they will pursue the death penalty if Kohberger is found guilty and stated that no mitigating circumstances have been identified to prevent this consideration.
A hearing on this matter is scheduled for November 7, with additional motions to be discussed on January 23 and April 3. There are also deadlines for submitting expert witness information and trial materials.
Kohberger remains in custody at the Ada County Jail in Boise, the most populous county in Idaho, home to nearly 495,000 residents.