Bryan Kohberger's Family Backs His Bid to Overturn Murder Convictions

Bryan Kohberger's family has publicly stated their support for his legal efforts to overturn his murder convictions, asserting a desire to see the "complete and unvarnished truth" revealed through a trial.

Kohberger, 31, who was a criminal justice doctoral student, is currently serving four consecutive life sentences. He pleaded guilty to the murders of four college students in Moscow, Idaho, in November 2022. His plea deal was intended to remove the possibility of the death penalty. However, Kohberger now claims innocence, stating he was "convinced to falsely confess."

The family's statement emphasized their support does not aim to exacerbate the grief of the victims' families. "Rather, it comes from our family’s need to see that the complete and unvarnished truth is told," they said. "Like everyone, we seek answers to all the questions that have been raised, which can only be addressed through a proper trial, as opposed to an improper plea."

Kohberger himself told The New York Times last month, "My actual innocence is my truth, and the plea, hinged on by false promises and blatant disinformation, MUST be withdrawn."

Earlier this month, Kohberger filed a motion requesting a different judge to preside over his case, arguing that Judge Steven Hippler made biased remarks during sentencing in July. At the time of sentencing, Hippler described Kohberger's actions as having erased "anything good or intrinsically human" about him and called him "the worst of the worst."

Kohberger has also requested that the case be moved back to Latah County, where the homicides occurred. A hearing is scheduled for October 15 to address the requests for a new judge and a change of venue. Separately, a hearing concerning his motion for post-conviction relief is set for June 17, 2027.