The convicted murderer Bryan Kohberger intends to seek post-conviction relief after admitting guilt in the killing of four University of Idaho students during a home invasion at 4 a.m. Sources with knowledge of the situation indicate that Kohberger will argue ineffective legal counsel.
The New York Times initially reported this development after Kohberger directly called a reporter, stating his “absolute claim of innocence” in his first public comments outside the courtroom.
“My actual innocence is my truth, and the plea, hinged on false promises and blatant disinformation, MUST be withdrawn,” Kohberger said.
Kohberger is serving four consecutive life sentences without parole, plus an additional 10 years, for the murders of Xana Kernodle, Ethan Chapin, Madison Mogen, and Kaylee Goncalves on November 13, 2022. He pled guilty in July 2025.
Prosecutors at his sentencing on July 23, 2025, in Boise, Idaho, primarily relied on cellphone location data and digital evidence. A photo taken during the hearing shows Kohberger at the Ada County Courthouse. As part of his plea agreement, Kohberger waived his right to appeal.