Idaho Student Murders: Kohberger’s “Alibi” Under Scrutiny, Prosecutors Seek to Block Further Defense Witnesses
“Alibi” Deemed Vague and Insufficient
Bryan Kohberger, the suspect in the Idaho student murders, has offered an alibi claiming he was driving around viewing the “moon and stars” the night of the killings. However, prosecutors are challenging the validity of this explanation, deeming it too vague and lacking specific details.
Bill Thompson, Latah County Prosecuting Attorney, stated in a court filing: “With the exception of the reference to Wawawai Park (which is new), the defendant is offering nothing new to his initial ‘alibi’ that he was simply driving around during the morning hours of November 13, 2022.”
Defense Expert’s Argument
Despite the prosecution’s objections, Edwina Elcox, a defense attorney who previously represented “cult mom” killer Lori Vallow, argued that the prosecution should not control what is deemed relevant to the defense.
“It is not up to the State to determine what is or is not relevant to the defense,” Elcox said. “Try as they may to control the narrative.”
Alibi Timeline and Contradictions
Kohberger’s lawyers had previously filed an alibi claiming he was driving around between 2:26 a.m. and 2:52 a.m. on the night of the murders. However, cell phone records reportedly show activity in the area of the victims’ residence around 4 a.m.
Expert: Alibi Lacks Necessary Details
David Gelman, a former prosecutor and current defense attorney, argued that Kohberger’s alibi did not provide enough specifics or witness names to substantiate his claim.
“A denial of the defendant’s presence at the crime scene isn’t enough to establish he was somewhere else,” Gelman said. “He has offered no specifics as to his location… nor has he offered the names of those witnesses upon whom he will rely on to establish the defense.”
Prosecutors Aim to Block Cellphone Expert
The defense had planned to call an expert on cellphone data to support their alibi claim. However, prosecutors argue that since the alibi is so vague, such expert testimony should not be permitted.
Upcoming Hearing and Stakes
Kohberger’s next hearing is scheduled for January 12th, 2024, where the judge will consider the prosecution’s request to deny further defense witnesses and the validity of Kohberger’s alibi.
If the alibi is dismissed, it could significantly weaken the defense’s case. Conviction could result in the death penalty for Kohberger.
