Defense Attorney Argues that ‘Mob Mentality’ Justifies Request to Change Venue for Idaho Murders Trial for Bryan Kohberger

Defense attorneys for Bryan Kohberger, accused of killing four University of Idaho students, argue that a “mob mentality” in Latah County justifies moving the trial due to prejudice against their client. A survey showed hostility towards Kohberger in the community, with residents expressing a desire for vigilante justice if he is not convicted. The defense claims that biased media coverage has tainted potential jurors’ perceptions of Kohberger’s guilt. Despite the state’s suggestion to move the jury pool to a neighboring county, the defense believes this will not solve the issue. They propose moving the trial to Ada County, where residents showed less emotional connection to the case. The defense rejects vetting jurors and sequestering the jury as insufficient measures to ensure impartiality. The judge will hear arguments from both sides on August 29. Kohberger, a doctoral student at Washington State University, faces four counts of first-degree murder and burglary in connection with the killings. The state alleges DNA evidence, cellphone signals, and security videos link Kohberger to the crime, while the defense has presented an alibi. The trial is set for June 2025, with the state seeking the death penalty.

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