Bryan Kohberger's Attorney Challenges Judge's Impartiality in Idaho Murders Case

Bryan Kohberger's defense team is actively seeking to disqualify the judge overseeing post-conviction proceedings in the Idaho student murders case, citing remarks made by the judge that they argue call his impartiality into question. Defense attorney Greg Rauch is accusing Latah County prosecutors of not adequately addressing concerns raised in a motion to remove Judge Steven Hippler.

Hippler previously described Kohberger as a "faceless coward" and stated that the crime made him "the worst of the worst." The defense's motion argues that the judge's statements about Kohberger's capacity for truthfulness and the defense's preparation are relevant to the disputes the court may now decide.

"The question is not whether someone might criticize the Court, but whether an informed, reasonable observer could question its impartiality in light of this connected record," Rauch stated in a filing.

The defense also pointed to a June scheduling order where Hippler rejected a request for more time from Kohberger's previous defense attorney. In that order, Hippler characterized complaints about discovery as "ultimately empty" and suggested the defense was attempting to delay the trial. Days later, during a change-of-plea hearing, Hippler questioned the defense attorney about discovery completion, to which she replied affirmatively.

Prosecutors, in their opposition to the disqualification motion, argued that Kohberger failed to demonstrate actual bias. They contended that Hippler's remarks at sentencing, made after Kohberger admitted guilt, were not unusual and that the judge is in the best position to adjudicate post-conviction relief claims.

Rauch has also argued that Hippler could voluntarily recuse himself to avoid any appearance of partiality. The defense asserts that prosecutors have mischaracterized their arguments and failed to address some points raised in the initial motion.

Kohberger pleaded guilty in October to the murders of University of Idaho students Madison Mogen, Kaylee Goncalves, Xana Kernodle, and Ethan Chapin in November 2022. The guilty plea, made to avoid the death penalty, is what he is now attempting to withdraw.

Kohberger initially filed a handwritten petition for post-conviction relief in July. Rauch was later appointed to represent him, with a deadline of January 13, 2027, to file an amended petition. A hearing on the motion to disqualify the judge was abruptly canceled and will be rescheduled.