A contentious hearing is underway in Idaho, where Bryan Kohberger’s legal team is challenging the full restitution amount ordered after his guilty plea in the horrific murders of four University of Idaho students. The argument centers on whether Kohberger should be responsible for covering expenses already offset by substantial public donations.
The core of the dispute involves approximately $27,000 intended to reimburse the parents of Kaylee Goncalves and the mother of Madison Mogen for travel and related costs incurred throughout the case. Kohberger’s lawyers contend these expenses were already covered by generous contributions received through GoFundMe campaigns established to support the grieving families.
Prosecutors, however, are pushing back, asserting that Kohberger has consistently received financial support from his family and other unidentified sources while incarcerated. They argue that these funds should rightfully be directed to the victims’ families to help alleviate their ongoing pain and loss.
The brutal crime unfolded in the early hours of November 13, 2022, at a student rental home in Moscow, Idaho. Kaylee Goncalves and Madison Mogen were murdered in an upstairs bedroom, and the violence then extended downstairs, claiming the lives of their roommates, Xana Kernodle and Ethan Chapin.
The source of funds reaching Kohberger during his imprisonment remains largely obscured, with prosecutors having filed his jailhouse financial history under seal. Speculation has swirled, fueled by social media posts from individuals claiming to have sent him money through his commissary account.
Some observers suggest a portion of the funds may originate from supporters, potentially including those drawn to Kohberger’s case. Others believe media outlets, eager for exclusive access, may have offered financial incentives for an interview – a prospect Kohberger has so far resisted.
Throughout the legal proceedings, Kohberger has remained silent, declining the opportunity to address the court at his sentencing. He stated he would “respectfully decline” to speak, maintaining a stoic silence that has only deepened the public’s fascination with the case.
Experts estimate that Kohberger could command a substantial sum – potentially between $50,000 and $60,000 – for a detailed account of the murders. However, Idaho law, mirroring New York’s “Son of Sam” legislation, prevents criminals from profiting directly from their crimes.
Any money earned from detailing his involvement in the murders would be directed to the state treasurer and held in escrow. Victims and their families would then have five years to pursue civil claims and seek compensation from those funds.
Kohberger initially agreed to pay over $250,000 in criminal fines and fees, along with an additional $20,000 to each victim’s family as part of his plea deal to avoid the death penalty. His lawyers are now seeking to reduce this financial burden, arguing the requested travel expenses are already adequately covered.
In a recent court filing, Kohberger’s attorneys emphasized the significant funds raised through GoFundMe, stating that the requested expenses were “specifically asked for and covered” by those campaigns. The hearing today will determine whether the judge agrees with their assessment and adjusts the restitution amount accordingly.
