Lawyers representing Washington State University criminology Ph.D. student Bryan Kohberger, who is accused of killing four University of Idaho undergrads in a home invasion stabbing, are adamant about his innocence. The defense has requested a change of venue due to concerns about the local community’s perceived bias against Kohberger. The defense efforts were highlighted by a controversial survey that prompted the judge to ban both sides from contacting potential jurors.
Elisa Massoth, a defense attorney assisting Kohberger, argued before the judge that denying a change of venue would violate Kohberger’s right to a fair trial, citing data from the disputed survey. The survey included questions about Kohberger stalking one of the victims, a claim that has been widely reported based on allegations in the case. The prosecuting attorney criticized the defense strategy, accusing them of attempting to taint the jury pool with false information and biased questions.
Expert witness Bryan Edelman, who conducted the survey, defended his work despite admitting that some questions contained false information. Massoth cited statistics from the survey indicating a high percentage of respondents held prejudiced views against Kohberger based on misinformation. The judge temporarily halted the survey in response to concerns raised by the prosecution and has yet to decide whether it can resume.
Survey questions included specific details about the case, such as Kohberger’s arrest and DNA evidence linking him to the crime. Jury consultant Mark Calzaretta explained that surveys are common practice for seeking a change of venue in high-profile cases, but questioning typically focuses on potential bias rather than specific case details. The defense seeks a change of venue to a larger county with a more diverse jury pool, arguing for a fair trial for Kohberger.
The court scheduled follow-up hearings and deadlines related to the case, with the defense continuing to push for a change of venue. The judge will hear arguments for the potential change of venue and set deadlines for submitting evidence. Kohberger has pled not guilty to all charges, and the defense is pursuing strategies to ensure a fair trial despite the challenges posed by community bias and media reports. The case remains complex, with both sides engaging in legal maneuvers to secure their positions.
