(NewsNation) — Bryan Kohberger’s defense team pushed back against a summer trial citing the overwhelming volume of evidence, including 51 terabytes of data, to be meticulously examined.
Kohberger, faced another day in court on Friday, as his defense argued for the dismissal of his indictment. The judge, however, delivered a decisive blow to the defense’s efforts, asserting that their arguments failed to warrant a halt to the proceedings or a reconsideration of the previous decision.
Kohberger is accused of murdering four University of Idaho students. Despite the urgency expressed by the prosecution, requesting a summer trial for a swift resolution, the defense attorney, Anne Taylor, asserted, “Your honor, summer of 2024, it’s impossible for us to do it. Our team constantly meets. We are on this. This is our priority. Bryan is our priority, but we are not going to be ready in June 2024.”
However, Bill Thompson, the Latah County prosecutor, voiced concerns about the prolonged uncertainty for the victims’ families, urging a timely resolution. The judge, after hearing arguments from both sides, opted to issue a written ruling in the future, further delaying the quest for justice.
“This is a death penalty case,” federal trial and defense attorney Megan Whiteside explained on “NewsNation Prime,” highlighting the judge’s cautious approach. The defense attorney emphasized the need for meticulous proceedings to ensure that, if a conviction is secured, it will withstand appeals.
The defense team’s claim of information overload, with 51 terabytes of evidence to sift through, has led to speculations that the trial may not commence until 2025.
Whiteside clarified that the 51 terabytes likely contain extensive video evidence, estimating that one terabyte could hold up to 500 hours of footage. With the expectation of more discovery in the case, the defense’s ability to effectively navigate this digital deluge will play a pivotal role in the proceedings.
The deaths of college students Kaylee Goncalves, Madison Mogen, Xana Kernodle and Ethan Chapin shook the small town of Moscow, Idaho. The case attracted national attention, which has led the judge to impose a strict gag order on the case.
Steve and Kristi Goncalves, the parents of Goncalves, spoke with Good Morning America on Friday and Kristi stated that her daughter was “completely, totally trapped” in the bedroom she and her best friend Madison Mogen were found in, People reported.