Kohberger Seeks New Trial, Claims Innocence

Bryan Kohberger, who was convicted last year of murdering four University of Idaho students, is challenging his guilty plea and seeking a new trial.

Kohberger, currently serving four life sentences, stated in an interview that he is innocent and was misled into confessing to the killings. He has filed a petition to withdraw his plea, citing concerns about how the deal was arranged.

He declined to discuss specific evidence or details of his innocence claim. Kohberger expressed that his intention is for all questions regarding the case to be investigated and answered appropriately in a trial setting.

The November 2022 murders in Moscow, Idaho, captivated the nation. Law enforcement outlined evidence against Kohberger, including his DNA on a knife sheath found at the scene and matching vehicle sightings.

Kohberger, who prepared his challenge documentation himself, will seek appointed legal counsel for his pursuit of a new trial. He accepted responsibility for the murders in a July 2025 hearing but never offered a motive.

Experts on his former defense team have raised issues with the plea arrangement and evidence handling, suggesting multiple perpetrators and questioning investigative procedures. Kohberger alluded to these concerns, stating that unanswered questions seem to multiply.