Judge maintains death penalty as possible punishment for Bryan Kohberger

A Latah County judge ruled on Thursday that prosecutors may pursue the death penalty against Bryan Kohberger, who faces charges for the stabbing deaths of four University of Idaho students in 2022. Kohberger’s defense argued that his autism spectrum disorder diminishes his culpability, citing potential violations of his rights under the Eighth Amendment. The judge maintained that autism does not meet the criteria for exemption from capital punishment, as only intellectual disabilities qualify under U. S. Supreme Court precedent.

Kohberger, arrested in Pennsylvania weeks after the murders, was a criminal justice graduate student at a nearby university. Autopsies indicated the victims were likely asleep during the attack, with multiple stab wounds and some defensive injuries noted. The prosecution plans to present evidence from 911 calls made by surviving roommates and text messages sent around the time of the attack. Kohberger’s trial is scheduled to commence in August, and the ruling allows for potential capital punishment if he is convicted. This case has drawn significant media attention due to the nature of the crimes and the legal implications regarding mental health and capital punishment.