The King Road Killings: An Idaho Murder Mystery – Episode Summary

Episode Title: Kohberger's Trial Moves to Boise
Release Date: September 13, 2024
Host: Kana Whitworth
Guest: Brian Buckmire, ABC Legal Contributor and Defense Attorney

Introduction and Trial Venue Change

In the latest episode of The King Road Killings: An Idaho Murder Mystery, ABC News Correspondent Kana Whitworth provides a significant update on the trial of Bryan Kohberger, the criminology PhD student charged with the brutal murders of four University of Idaho students on King Road in Moscow, Idaho. The episode delves into the recent decision by Judge John Judge to relocate the trial from Moscow to Boise, a move endorsed by the Idaho Supreme Court. This decision was primarily influenced by concerns over pretrial publicity in Latah County, which could prejudice the jury against Kohberger.

Kana Whitworth opens the discussion by stating:

"[Judge John Judge has] agreed to move the trial out of Moscow, where the four University of Idaho students were murdered. And the Idaho Supreme Court has chosen Boise. [..] Bryan Kohberger has been charged with the four murders and maintains his innocence."
(00:27)

Defense Arguments for Change of Venue

Joining Whitworth is Brian Buckmire, a seasoned defense attorney, who explains the rarity and significance of the venue change. He emphasizes that the defense presented robust evidence demonstrating potential prejudice in Latah County, supported by surveys indicating community bias against Kohberger.

Brian Buckmire remarks:

"It's very rare that a motion like this has even made yet, let alone granted. But I think from the evidence that they presented in the arguments that they made, they had a strong showing."
(01:27)

He further elaborates on the role of community sentiment in Latah County, noting:

"I think a lot of those answers help the defense for sure."
(02:40)

Implications for the Community and Jury Pool

The relocation to Boise, Idaho’s most populous city, aims to access a more diverse and potentially unbiased jury pool. Buckmire highlights that a larger population reduces the likelihood of pre-existing biases influencing the trial's outcome.

Brian Buckmire explains:

"The size plays a part of it all in that. Yeah, the size and the distance. So size, you've got more people, so you're hoping, statistically speaking, you'll get less people that are interested with the case."
(03:02)

He draws a parallel to his personal experience, underscoring the importance of impartiality:

"If something bad happened in Toronto, where my family grew up, [...] I may be a little bit biased [...] But I love and live in New York, but I don't have the connections in the same way."
(03:02)

Introduction of Judge Steve Hippler

A new judge, Steve Hippler, has been assigned to oversee the case in Boise. Whitworth highlights the Gonzalez family's mixed emotions regarding the move. While they express frustration over the logistical challenges, they also recognize Hippler’s reputation for strength and determination.

Kana Whitworth notes:

"They [the Gonzalez family] seem to be encouraged by the fact that there is a new judge overseeing this case. In fact, they called it a new chapter for them."
(04:35)

Buckmire praises Hippler’s credentials, suggesting that the Idaho Supreme Court carefully selected him due to his impeccable record:

"There are probably numerous positive words to be said of the defense bar as well as the prosecutors. [...] that Judge Hippler's record is above reproach."
(05:25)

Trial Logistics and Potential Delays

Whitworth and Buckmire discuss the practical aspects of moving the trial, including the transportation of Kohberger and the financial burden on Latah County. Buckmire anticipates potential delays due to court scheduling in Boise but remains optimistic that the trial will proceed as planned.

Brian Buckmire speculates:

"I think this judge is going to try to push ahead with this timeline for the sake of all parties involved."
(08:44)

Defense Strategies and the Death Penalty

A critical focus of the episode is the defense’s attempt to remove the death penalty from consideration. Whitworth inquires about the feasibility of this strategy.

Brian Buckmire responds candidly:

"Do I think they have a shot? Yes. But do I, do I think you can throw a football 80 yards and get a touchdown? Yeah, I've seen it before, but it's very difficult."
(10:24)

He acknowledges the uphill battle ahead:

"If this person is found guilty, this is why the death penalty exists. And I think just that idea of a person, if found guilty of murdering four college students in this way, the defenses really have an uphill battle."
(10:24)

Whitworth further discusses the defense’s arguments, including claims that the prosecution forced Kohberger to abandon his right to a speedy trial.

Brian Buckmire critiques the strategy:

"I think if anything, you have created a really great appellate issue that you can theoretically dig into post-conviction if that occurs. But I would be shocked to see a trial judge agree with that."
(11:28)

Gag Order and Courtroom Attire Controversy

The episode addresses the ongoing gag order in Latah County and the controversy surrounding Kohberger's courtroom attire. The Gonzalez family expressed concerns over Kohberger wearing suits instead of prison jumpsuits, questioning who funds these garments and arguing that suits uphold the presumption of innocence.

Brian Buckmire defends the use of suits:

"I'm pro. Let the person wear a suit. If you're guilty, a suit won't change it, but [it] allows that presumption to exist."
(15:17)

Looking Ahead: Trial Proceedings and Community Impact

Whitworth and Buckmire discuss the broader implications of the trial moving to Boise, especially its impact on the local community and the logistical challenges that lie ahead. Buckmire draws parallels to the high-profile Lori Vallow and Chad Daybell case, commending Ada County’s ability to handle substantial legal proceedings efficiently.

Brian Buckmire affirms:

"Ada County did a great job of handling that case. [...] the protection, the officers, the court staff, the clerks, the judge, the prosecution, the defense, the way the system operated was as it should have."
(07:34)

Conclusion and Future Updates

The episode concludes with Whitworth emphasizing the Gonzalez family's perspective, highlighting their resilience and the importance of remembering the victims by their names: Kaylee, Maddie, Zanna, and Ethan. She assures listeners that ABC News will continue to monitor and report on the trial's developments.

Kana Whitworth shares:

"The only four names that truly matter will remain the same. The only ones you should ever see as a title to an article. Kaylee, Maddie, Zanna, and Ethan."
(17:56)

Buckmire underscores the pursuit of justice:

"We want to make sure we get it right and get it right the first time."
(16:25)

Notable Quotes

• Kana Whitworth:
  "Judge John Judge has agreed to move the trial out of Moscow... [..] Bryan Kohberger has been charged with the four murders and maintains his innocence."
  (00:27)

• Brian Buckmire:
  "It's very rare that a motion like this has even made yet, let alone granted..."
  (01:27)

• Brian Buckmire:
  "Do I think you can throw a football 80 yards and get a touchdown? Yeah, I've seen it before, but it's very difficult."
  (10:24)

• Brian Buckmire:
  "I think Ada County did a great job of handling that case... the system operated was as it should have."
  (07:34)

Final Thoughts

This episode provides an in-depth look at the shifting dynamics of Bryan Kohberger's trial, exploring legal strategies, community impact, and the pursuit of a fair judicial process. Listeners gain valuable insights from legal expert Brian Buckmire, offering a nuanced perspective on the complexities surrounding high-profile criminal cases.

For ongoing coverage and future updates, stay tuned to The King Road Killings: An Idaho Murder Mystery series by ABC Audio.