Kohberger Trial Delay Sought After Dateline Leak

Bryan Kohberger, accused of killing four University of Idaho students in 2022, appeared in court for two significant pre-trial hearings. The defense is seeking to delay the August trial, arguing that a recent Dateline NBC episode leaked sensitive information and heightened prejudicial publicity, threatening Kohberger’s right to a fair trial. They also contend more preparation time is needed for the death penalty case, including reviewing evidence and mitigating factors. Prosecutors oppose the delay, maintaining the defense has had sufficient time and that postponement would not reduce publicity or aid jury selection. Judge Steven Hippler is also considering, in a sealed session, whether the defense has provided enough evidence to present an alternate perpetrator theory at trial. The court’s decisions will determine if the trial proceeds as scheduled or is postponed.