MOSCOW, IDAHO: Defense attorneys representing Bryan Kohberger, who is accused of killing four University of Idaho students in a stabbing spree, have requested a ban on cameras during the remaining court proceedings.
Kohberger's lawyers contend that camera operators have violated court rules by "exclusively" focusing on the defendant, leading to what they consider "sensationalistic and prejudicial" coverage.
Could the potential ban on cameras have an impact on Bryan Kohberger's case?
Kohberger's lawyers argue that such images could potentially bias future jurors and impact the outcome of the capital case. That's why the lawyers have argued for the "expulsion of cameras from future proceedings."
Kohberger, 28, is currently accused of fatally stabbing students Kaylee Goncalves, 21, Madison Mogen, 21, Xana Kernodle, 20, and Ethan Chapin, 20, at their off campus residence in the early hours of November 13.
While the judge has yet to respond to the request, legal experts suggest that the defense's motivation could be tied to the nature of a capital case. David Calviello, a criminal defense attorney and former prosecutor, said, "Considering this is a capital case, it is not surprising defense counsel seeks to insulate the defendant as much as possible."
"In order to improve the client's chances of success in a capital case, it’s imperative that they get a jury that knows little to nothing about the case. It doesn’t help to have unflattering images of the defendant’s face emblazoned in their memory," reported ABC News.
What led Bryan Kohberger to waive his right to a speedy trial?
Further, Kohberger's decision to waive his right to a speedy trial earlier this week, has further delayed proceedings. The trial was originally scheduled to begin on October 2, but the delay has caused distress to the victims' families who seek closure.
The motion stated that Kohberger is "not claiming to be at a specific location at a specific time" but that "he was out, driving during the late night and early morning hours of November 12-13, 2022."
'We want to get this trial over!'
The Goncalves family has expressed a strong desire to avoid the situation that has unfolded. In a Facebook post shared shortly before the decision was reached, they asked for prayers and support, conveying their apprehension about the trial's timeline.
"It is very likely that it won't take place for years. 'We want to get this trial over.' Just thinking it could be years absolutely kills me," the family said. They wrote in a follow-up post, "Things are going to get rough, please stick with us."
What is the Idaho suspect's alibi?
Moreover, Kohberger's defense team recently provided an alibi for the night of the alleged murders, asserting that he was driving alone during the late-night hours when the incidents occurred. The alibi, which lacks verification from witnesses, was filed by defense attorney Anne Taylor in Latah County District Court on August 2.
Despite the allegations against him, Kohberger was unable to provide any witnesses to corroborate his whereabouts during the time in question. This lack of supporting testimony casts doubt on his alibi for the night of the incident. Nevertheless, Kohberger maintains his plea of not guilty for all the charges leveled against him.
