Kohberger trial judge looking for gag order violators

Bryan Kohberger's quadruple-murder trial is under scrutiny as Judge Steven Hippler seeks to identify potential violators of a gag order. He has mandated that both the prosecution and defense provide a list of individuals who may have accessed the leaked information. This sensitive data includes Kohberger's internet search history, highlighted in an NBC Dateline episode aired on May 9. The judge noted that the breach likely originated from someone within law enforcement or the prosecution team. Such leaks could complicate the jury selection process, potentially prolonging the trial and increasing the financial burden on taxpayers.

Kohberger, a former WSU graduate student, faces charges for the stabbings of Ethan Chapin and three Idaho women found dead in Moscow, Idaho, on November 13, 2022. A not-guilty plea has been entered on his behalf, with the trial scheduled to commence in August. The outcome of this trial could have significant ramifications for the legal proceedings in the region.