The many pre-trial hearings in Idaho quadruple murder case against Bryan Kohberger

The progression of the case against Bryan Kohberger, charged in the killings of four University of Idaho students, has been slowed by a series of pre-trial motions and hearings.

After yet another pre-trial hearing in Bryan Kohberger’s quadruple murder trial in early May, the family of one of the victims openly criticized the slow pace of the proceedings. “This case is turning into a hamster wheel of motions, hearings, and delayed decisions,” the “incredibly frustrated” family of slain University of Idaho student Kaylee Goncalves said in a statement. The criticism stemmed from the long and winding road that’s unfolded since four University of Idaho students – Goncalves, Ethan Chapin, Xana Kernodle and Madison Mogen – were fatally stabbed in the overnight hours of November 13, 2022, at a home just off the school’s main campus in Moscow. Kohberger, a Washington State University graduate student in criminology, was arrested in the killings on December 30, 2022, in his home state of Pennsylvania. A not guilty plea was entered on his behalf in May 2023, and his attorneys have indicated the 29-year-old intends to present an alibi as part of his defense. Prosecutors have said they will seek the death penalty. The trial is set to begin June 2, 2025, according to a scheduling order filed in court. Still, the progression of the case has been slowed by a series of pre-trial motions and hearings. Latah County Judge John Judge said in April he wants a “hearing at least every month,” noting the importance of “cleaning up” the legal proceedings.