Bryan Kohberger, convicted in the killing of four Idaho students, is set to appear in court on October 15. He seeks to have Judge Steven Hippler removed from his case. Kohberger is attempting to overturn his guilty plea through post-conviction relief.
In July, Kohberger submitted a handwritten petition. He claimed ineffective counsel and that his guilty plea was not voluntary. He argued that broken promises and legal threats influenced his plea. His new legal team includes attorney Greg Rauch from Moscow, Idaho, and Jason Goldman, a private defense lawyer from New York.
Cost of Defense and New Legal Strategy
The defense for Kohberger, a costly affair, led to the appointment of new lawyers. The revised petition is expected by November 13, four years since the murders. According to Goldman, their focus is on examining constitutional issues related to Kohberger’s guilty plea.
Judge’s Refusal and Language at Sentencing
In July 2025, Kohberger pleaded guilty to the murders of Madison Mogen, Kaylee Goncalves, Xana Kernodle, and Ethan Chapin. He also faced charges for a related burglary. The plea deal meant a life sentence without parole, avoiding the death penalty. His defense filed a motion in August to disqualify Judge Hippler, citing concerns over impartiality.
Rauch expressed discomfort with how Hippler characterized Kohberger during sentencing. Hippler described Kohberger as lacking good or intrinsically human qualities. The defense’s motion followed Hippler’s refusal to extend time for the former legal team as trial dates neared.
Prosecution’s Evidence and Upcoming Hearing
Deputy Latah County Prosecuting Attorney Keith Scholl opposed Kohberger’s plea withdrawal. Scholl requested transcripts of Kohberger’s hearings, where he admitted guilt without duress. Kohberger’s attorneys are required to justify sealing additional confidential filings by September 10. The court ordered these documents shared with the Latah County Prosecutor’s office.
The motion to disqualify Judge Hippler will be addressed in a WebEx hearing on October 15 at 1:30 p.m. MT.