Bryan Kohberger seeks to withdraw guilty plea and disqualify judge

Bryan Kohberger is attempting to withdraw his guilty plea regarding the 2022 murders of four University of Idaho students: Kaylee Goncalves, Madison Mogen, Xana Kernodle, and Ethan Chapin. Kohberger, who was sentenced to four consecutive life sentences without parole, has filed a petition for post-conviction relief. His defense argues that his previous counsel provided ineffective assistance, failed to review exculpatory evidence, and pressured him into the plea agreement.

As part of this legal challenge, Kohberger’s new attorney, Greg Rauch, has moved to disqualify Judge Steven Hippler. The motion cites Hippler’s previous remarks, in which the judge referred to Kohberger as a “faceless coward,” arguing these statements compromise judicial impartiality. The defense is also requesting that proceedings be moved from Ada County back to Latah County.

Judge Hippler has scheduled a status conference for June 3, 2027, and a potential evidentiary hearing for June 17, 2027. An evidentiary hearing will only proceed if the judge determines the petition requires further exploration through testimony and evidence. If the court finds the original plea was improperly entered, the convictions could be vacated, potentially leading to a new trial.