The families of four University of Idaho murder victims, Kaylee Goncalves, Madison Mogen, Xana Kernodle, and Ethan Chapin, will have the opportunity to speak directly to their children’s admitted killer, Bryan Kohberger, at his sentencing on Wednesday. Kohberger pleaded guilty to all counts, with the death penalty taken off the table as part of the plea deal. He will be sentenced to four consecutive life sentences on the four first-degree murder counts and the maximum penalty of 10 years on the burglary count. President Donald Trump has expressed his support for Kohberger, calling for him to reveal a motive. The family of Kaylee Goncalves thanked Trump for “pushing for justice” and urged him to provide an explanation for the murders.
Sentencing is the first time the victims’ families can speak directly to their children’s killer, and they will have the chance to read victim impact statements in open court. The victims’ roommates, who have avoided the spotlight, might also speak at sentencing, with the option for them to speak in court themselves, have an attorney or relative read a statement on their behalf, or decline altogether. Moscow police and the victims’ friends are also expected to be in the Boise, Idaho, courtroom.
