MOSCOW, Idaho — The man accused of murdering four University of Idaho students last November formally waived his right to a speedy trial and shared his plans to file a motion to avoid the death penalty.
Judge John Judge accepted Bryan Kohberger's waiver of a speedy trial during his conference hearing on Wednesday. During that hearing, Kohberger and his attorney, Anne Taylor, also announced they plan to file a motion to strike the death penalty.
Because of the intent to file new motions, Kohberger's trial will not begin on Oct. 2 as previously scheduled.
Kohberger, 28, is accused of murdering Ethan Chapin, Kaylee Goncalves, Xana Kernodle and Madison Mogen in a Moscow home last November. He was arrested at his family's home in Pennsylvania on Dec. 30, 2022 and has been in the Latah County Jail since the beginning of the year.
Since his arrest, Kohberger has been indicted by a grand jury for the charges against him and stood silent at his arraignment, prompting the judge to enter five not guilty pleas on his behalf. The state also filed a motion to seek the death penalty against Kohberger.
During Wednesday's hearing, Taylor said she does not believe Kohberger's case will be "effective" or "ready" by the Oct. 2 date. She said the defense needs more time to review evidence from the state and complete other processes, which will include filing motions to strike the death penalty, challenge the grand jury indictment against Kohberger and ban cameras from the courtroom.
Latah County Prosecutor Bill Thompson disagreed with Taylor, adding the state would like to wrap up the trial sooner than later.
Judge Judge told Taylor he understands the defense wants to be full prepared for the trial and accepted Kohberger's waiver of right to a speedy trial. He also suggested that a new trial date be set after the next hearing, which is scheduled for Sept. 1. That hearing will discuss Kohberger's motion to dismiss his indictment.
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