At the time of the murders, Kohberger was a 29-year-old criminology Ph.D. student at Washington State University, residing in Pullman, Washington, just eight miles from the crime scene.

Judge Stephen Hippler expressed skepticism regarding the defense's claims, clarifying that the international treaty they referenced primarily ensures due process rather than abolishing the death penalty.

To address potential juror bias and resource limitations in Latah County, the trial venue has been moved to Boise.

Bryan Kohberger is facing four counts of murder related to the brutal killings of University of Idaho students Madison Mogen, Kaylee Goncalves, Xana Kernodle, and Ethan Chapin on November 13, 2022, with prosecutors seeking the death penalty if he is convicted.

Kohberger's defense has raised multiple legal arguments against the death penalty, asserting it may constitute cruel and unusual punishment and challenging the constitutionality of Idaho's recently reinstated firing squad execution method.

Kaylee Goncalves's parents attended the hearing, voicing their belief that the death penalty is justified due to the severity of the crime and the loss of their daughter.

Despite the defense's challenges, prosecutors maintain that the death penalty remains legally valid in Idaho, supported by state and federal precedents.

Investigators linked Kohberger to the crime through DNA evidence found on a knife sheath, along with surveillance footage and cellphone data.

Legal expert Matt Mangino remarked that the defense's arguments appear more appropriate for an appellate court, as they challenge various aggravating factors and the legality of the firing squad.

The trial is scheduled to begin in August 2025, with jury selection starting on July 30, and is expected to last up to three months.

The defense plans to call expert witnesses, including forensic pathologist Dr. Barbara Wolf and University of Idaho law professor Aliza Cover, to bolster their case against capital punishment.

Idaho has not executed anyone since 2012 due to challenges in obtaining lethal injection drugs, but the state is currently preparing to execute Thomas Creech on November 13, 2024, marking the second anniversary of the students' murders.