Man who pleaded guilty to four Idaho student murders seeks to withdraw plea

Bryan Kohberger, who was sentenced last year to four consecutive life terms for the November 2022 stabbing deaths of four University of Idaho students, told the New York Times he intends to withdraw his guilty plea. He said the original plea was entered to avoid the death penalty and was based on "false promises and blatant disinformation."

The family of Kaylee Goncalves, one of the victims, issued a statement criticizing Kohberger, describing him as a "narcissist" and saying he had changed his position. The family added that the attention surrounding Kohberger's legal maneuvers was a tragedy for the victims' loved ones.

Kohberger’s new filing will request that prosecutors consider the death penalty if they choose to pursue it. Idaho Attorney General Raúl Labrador expressed sympathy for the families, noting they have already endured "unimaginable loss" and now face “deeply painful news.” He said his office is prepared to take any steps necessary to ensure justice is carried out.

"He told the judge under oath at the plea hearing that he understood the deal, was acting voluntarily, and was pleading guilty because he was guilty," Sam Newton, associate professor at the University of Idaho College of Law, told the BBC.

The case, which shocked the small college town of Moscow, remains notable for the lack of a disclosed motive and for the extensive evidence that placed Kohberger at the crime scene.