Bryan Kohberger Faces Prosecutors Seeking Death Penalty with Novel Execution Method in Idaho

Idaho may use firing squads for death penalty if lethal injection drugs are unavailable.

Accused killer Bryan Kohberger is facing the possibility of the death penalty and a new mode of execution in Idaho if he is found guilty of murdering four college students in Moscow last year. Kohberger has been charged with the killings of University of Idaho students Ethan Chapin, Madison Mogen, Xana Kernodle, and Kaylee Goncalves in November.

The Latah County Prosecutor's Office has informed Kohberger's public defender, Anne Taylor, that they will be seeking the death penalty in his trial, set to begin in October. This information was reported by KMSP-TV.

The prosecutors have cited five "aggravating circumstances" in Idaho law as grounds for seeking the death penalty. These include the fact that multiple murders were committed and that the killings were "especially heinous, atrocious or cruel, manifesting exceptional depravity."

According to the filing, the killings demonstrated an "utter disregard for human life" and were committed in the commission of another crime, with the suspect showing "reckless indifference to human life."

The prosecutors also referenced a section of Idaho law stating that the defendant "has exhibited a propensity to commit murder which will probably constitute a continuing threat to society."

Concluding their filing, the prosecutors noted that no mitigating factors had been found and stated, "Consequently, considering all evidence currently known to the State, the State is compelled to file this notice of intent to seek the death penalty."

In response to the filing, the family of Kaylee Goncalves released a statement expressing gratitude that the prosecutor's office is pursuing the death penalty. They believe that the defendant in this case is deserving of such punishment and continue to pray for all the victims' families.

If Kohberger is convicted, a new Idaho law could allow for his execution by firing squad. Governor Brad Little signed this law in April, and it will take effect on July 1. The law provides for the firing squad as an option if lethal injection drugs cannot be obtained.

When signing the bill, Governor Little emphasized the importance of minimizing stress on corrections personnel while fulfilling justice. He stated that those on death row had been lawfully sentenced and that it is the responsibility of the state to ensure that lawful criminal sentences are carried out.

Republican Idaho state Representative Bruce Skaug explained that the firing squad option was necessary when lethal injection drugs were not available. He described the firing squad as certain and quick, with approximately 10 seconds of extreme pain before death.

Idaho Attorney General Raul Labrador stated that the de facto moratorium on the death penalty would be lifted when the new law takes effect. He clarified that the firing squad would not be the primary or preferred method of execution but would only be used if lethal injection was unavailable.

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