Bryan Kohberger, who pleaded guilty earlier this month to killing four University of Idaho students in 2022, is scheduled to be sentenced today.
The murder victims — Madison Mogen, Kaylee Goncalves, Xana Kernodle and Ethan Chapin — were found stabbed to death in their off-campus rental home in Moscow, Idaho, on Nov. 13, 2022. Prosecutors laid out key DNA evidence, surveillance footage and cellphone records that linked Kohberger to the killings.
Kohberger, 30, was expected to go through a lengthy and highly publicized trial in August. But in a surprise turn of events, Kohberger pleaded guilty on July 2 to murdering the four students as part of a plea deal to avoid the death penalty.
He’s expected to receive four consecutive life sentences, plus 10 years for burglary, according to the deal. He also waived his right to appeal and to challenge the sentence. The agreement doesn’t require Kohberger to explain his motive or actions, which has been one of many unanswered questions in the case as the victims’ families search for answers.
Today, they’ll have the opportunity to address Kohberger face to face as they read victim impact statements. Kohberger will also be given the chance to address the court, but it’s unclear if he will do so since he’s not legally obligated.
Follow the live blog below for the latest updates on what’s happening in court from our own reporting, as well as various reporters and news organizations, including CNN, NewsNation, NBC News and the Associated Press.
