Kohberger Pleads Guilty in Idaho Student Murders

Bryan Kohberger, accused of murdering four University of Idaho students in November 2022, has agreed to plead guilty as part of a deal that removes the death penalty and ensures life in prison without parole. The plea deal, which also requires Kohberger to waive his right to future appeals, was confirmed by multiple sources and the family of victim Kaylee Goncalves, who expressed outrage at the outcome and criticized the State of Idaho. Kohberger, a former criminology graduate student, had previously pleaded not guilty and attempted to have key evidence excluded, but mounting evidence, including DNA found at the scene, led to the agreement. The trial had been scheduled for August 2025, but the deal brings a significant and emotional resolution for the families impacted. Prosecutors said the decision aimed to ensure a conviction and avoid a lengthy trial, though some victim families remain critical. Kohberger will serve life sentences without the possibility of parole.