Bryan Kohberger: Prosecutors to hand over DNA records to defense ahead of Idaho murders suspect's trial
MOSCOW, IDAHO: A significant development has occurred in the University of Idaho quadruple murder case, as a judge overseeing the proceedings has ordered prosecutors to hand over DNA records to Bryan Kohberger's defense.
Kohberger is the sole suspect in the November 13, 2022 stabbings that claimed the lives of Kaylee Goncalves, Madison Mogen, Xana Kernodle, and Ethan Chapin in their off-campus home in Moscow.
DNA records and additional proof in Bryan Kohberger's quadruple murder
According to an affidavit for Kohberger's arrest, genealogy databases played a pivotal role in linking him to DNA found on a knife sheath next to one of the victims, Madison.
The defense has persistently sought access to all information related to these DNA records, arguing that it played a crucial role in the apprehension of their client.
Further, Kohberger's attorneys have raised concerns about the use of genealogy DNA in the case, submitting an affidavit by a DNA expert in August, casting doubts on the reliability of genetic genealogy science.
Prosecutors countered by asserting that the DNA profile from the knife sheath evidence was not the sole basis for Kohberger's arrest.
Additional evidence included cellphone data and surveillance video linking Kohberger's Hyundai Electra to the crime scene at the time of the murders.
At the time of the quadruple murders, Kohberger was a graduate student studying criminology at Washington State University, located a short drive from the crime scene. He was apprehended at his parents' home in Pennsylvania on December 30, 2022.
Judge orders partial disclosure of IGG information
On Thursday, January 11, Judge John Judge ruled in favor of the defense's motion to compel discovery, ordering prosecutors to provide a portion of the Investigative Genetic Genealogy (IGG) information.
The specific material slated for release remains undisclosed as it is outlined in a sealed order to protect the privacy of individuals on Kohberger's family tree.
"The court has now completed its review of the information provided by the State and orders the State to discover to the defense a portion of the IGG information," stated Judge John in the ruling.
While an initial trial date was set for October, various motions in the case have led to delays. Prosecutors recently requested a new trial date, proposing the summer of 2024, a move that awaits judicial consideration.
