Bryan Kohberger, aged 28, was apprehended on December 30, 2022, after an extensive six-week manhunt.
Death penalty case
At the time of the murders, Kohberger was pursuing his Ph.D. at Washington State University, situated nearby. Heading from Washington State to Pennsylvania, he embarked on a cross-country journey following the end of the semester. And he was arrested at his parent’s residence in the Pocono Mountains.
During the extradition hearing, in January Monroe County Chief Public Defender Jason LaBar, who represented Kohberger, emphasized his client’s eagerness to be exonerated and expressed the desire to expedite the resolution of the case.
In May at his arraignment, Kohberger opted to remain silent when prompted for a plea, resulting in the judge entering a not-guilty plea on his behalf in accordance with Idaho state law.
The family of Kaylee Goncalves released a statement that expressed gratitude that the state was pursuing the death penalty. They believe that there is no one more deserving of such a penalty than the defendant in this case. They also extended their prayers to the other victim’s families and conveyed appreciation for the support they have received.
