Idaho prosecutors have filed a request for a six-week trial for murder suspect Bryan Kohberger, who is accused of killing four University of Idaho students. The request, filed by Latah County’s senior deputy prosecuting attorney, Ashley Jennings, comes after the judge rejected Kohberger’s attempts to dismiss the indictment against him. The trial is proposed to take place during the summer when school is out, to alleviate concerns about parking and pedestrian safety.
Jennings argues that holding the trial during the summer would also leave more room in hotels for people visiting town for the proceedings. The University of Idaho’s academic calendar shows that the spring semester ends in the second week of June next year. The prosecutors also requested shortened trial days from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. PT, allowing jurors and parties involved to tend to their personal affairs and better prepare for the trial.
In addition, Jennings asked the judge to set key pretrial deadlines for discovery, expert disclosures, witness lists, and pretrial motions. The prosecutors also urged the judge not to extend Kohberger’s deadline for providing notice of his alibi, stating that the opportunity for him to disclose an alibi has already passed.
Kohberger’s defense previously stated in court filings that he had a habit of driving around alone in the middle of the night. However, they did not provide a specific location or witness testimony to verify his whereabouts during the hours leading up to the murders. Kohberger is accused of entering a house in Moscow, Idaho, and killing four students. Two others in the house survived and provided descriptions of the suspect. Police found a knife sheath with Kohberger’s DNA on it, as well as phone records and surveillance video linking him to the crime.
If convicted, Kohberger could face the death penalty. The trial is expected to be a significant event in the local community, and the request for a six-week trial reflects the seriousness of the case.
