Kohberger's Trial Venue Change Request Heard

Bryan Kohberger, accused of the 2022 stabbing murders of four University of Idaho students, is facing a motion from his defense team to move his trial from Moscow, Idaho, to a larger city like Boise due to concerns over juror bias stemming from extensive media coverage. Kohberger's lawyers argue that the emotional toll on the local community makes it impossible to secure an impartial jury, citing surveys that reflect strong prejudgments among Latah County residents. The prosecution contends that the defense has not proven that a fair trial cannot occur in Latah County and highlights that the case has also received significant coverage in Boise. Additionally, the financial implications of the trial are considerable, with Latah County's budget for trial expenses significantly increased to $150,000 for the upcoming year. Kohberger, a former criminology student, could face the death penalty if convicted, with the trial scheduled to begin in June 2025. The case has drawn national attention and left the local community shaken since the tragic events of November 2022.