Bryan Kohberger, accused of murdering four University of Idaho students in November 2022, faces multiple legal hurdles as his trial approaches in August 2025. A judge recently ruled that key evidence, including investigative genetic genealogy data, will remain part of the prosecution’s case, despite defense efforts to suppress it. Kohberger, arrested in December 2022, has pleaded not guilty, with his defense planning to present an alibi.

The trial’s progression has been marked by numerous pretrial motions and hearings, frustrating victims’ families. Key decisions include the rejection of the defense’s motions to dismiss charges and the ongoing debate over the admissibility of evidence obtained through genetic genealogy. The defense has also filed motions concerning the death penalty, arguing it violates Kohberger’s constitutional rights, including the claim of potential autism spectrum disorder as a mitigating factor.

In late February 2025, a judge denied motions to suppress DNA evidence and cell phone records, allowing the prosecution to use these materials in court. The trial is now set to begin in August, with the case moving to Ada County due to concerns over local bias.