Hidden True Crime - Kohberger’s GUILTY Plea Changes EVERYTHING | Full Hearing Recap

Episode Date: July 3, 2025

On July 2, 2025, Bryan Kohberger quietly entered a guilty plea in Boise, admitting responsibility for the November 2022 murders of Kaylee Goncalves, Madison Mogen, Xana Kernodle, and Ethan��Chapin. In this episode, we unpack exactly what happened in court—from his one‑word admissions to the plea deal that spares him the death penalty but ensures four consecutive life sentences plus ten years for burglary. About Hidden True Crime: What started as a simple conversation at their dinner table became a captivating podcast. Join the dynamic duo of Dr. John Matthias, a criminal psychologist, and Lauren Matthias, an investigative journalist, as they delve into the psychological facets of unthinkable crimes every week. Their unique perspectives and in-depth analysis offer a fresh take on true crime storytelling. Thank you for your support through sponsorships, subscribing, listening, and becoming a Patreon member at Patreon.com/HiddenTrueCrime Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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the man accused of brutally murdering four University of Idaho students has a to a plea deal. Under the reported terms, Brian will plead guilty to four counts of first-degree murder, those of Madison Mogan, Kaylee Gonzalez, Ethan Chapin, and Zana Karnodal, as well as one count of burglary. In doing so, the state has removed the death penalty from consideration and will sentence Brian to life in prison without the possibility of parole or appeal. As we reported on Monday, the decision has sparked outrage, particularly among the victim's families. Many have likened it to making a deal with the devil himself. The Gonzalez family is reportedly livid, stating they feel deeply portrayed by the state. Similarly, when prosecutors initially floated the idea of a plea agreement

to the Kernnadel family, they allegedly responded with firm opposition saying, no way. They better not dare go through with it. Despite these objections, it appears the state is moving forward with the plea deal anyway, leaving many to ask why now and at what cost. Well, Wednesday. July 2nd, Brian appeared in court for a change of plea hearing. Many expected that we may get more answers and insight into the state's decision that they are now calling a quote, unquote, sincere attempt to seek justice. But before we dive into what happened during the hearing, we have more newly released statements from other victims, family members, along with a revealing interview from someone who knew Brian in the past. This interview could offer possible insight into why

he may have chosen to accept the plea deal now, just weeks before the trial was set to begin. We already know the Gonzalez family has been particularly vocal since the decision. They didn't feel included in the decision-making process and feel like they have been slided by the state since the beginning of this case. Kaylee's sister, Aubrey, recently wrote a statement on Facebook saying, quote, My name is Aubrey Gonzalez, and I am the youngest member of the Consolves family, though I am unable to be there in person, I refuse to say silent about a situation. What the families of Ethan, Kaylee, Maddie, and Zana have endured over the past two and a half years is beyond comprehension.

From the constant delays to the relocation of proceedings, making it harder for loved ones to attend. The justice system has placed heavy burdens on those already carrying unimaginable grief. Through it all, we have tried to hold on to hope. We've believed in the process. We've had faith in the system. But at this point, it is impossible not to acknowledge the truth. The system has failed these four innocent victims and their families. These are not just names or headlines. Ethan, Kaley, Madison, and Zana were beautiful human beings who touched countless lives. They are not just the Idaho four. They were

sons, daughters, siblings, and friends, real people with real dreams. They deserve to be remembered for who they were in life and not for the tragedy of their deaths. But before that, truly happen, they deserve justice, nothing less. The introduction of this plea deal just weeks before the scheduled trial is both shocking and cruel. How this proposal come a year and a half ago, the families could have had time to process, discuss, and potentially come to terms with the idea of a life sentence, however difficult that may be. We could have had the time to understand it, to prepare for it emotionally, and perhaps even to find some degree of peace. But now, with mere weeks left, we are being asked to absorb and respond to life-altering decisions with no room to breathe.

Brian Coburger facing a life in prison means he would still get to speak, form relationships, and engage with the world. Meanwhile, our loved ones have been silenced forever. That reality stings more deeply when it feels like the system is protecting his future more than honoring the victim's pass. The justice system was created to serve and protect not to ret traumatize grieving families, and yet time and time again, we find ourselves blindsided, unhurried. and unsupported. This last-minute pleadial feels less like an act of justice and more like an afterthought. We are not asking for vengeance. We are asking for accountability. We are asking for dignity for our loved ones and we are asking pleading for justice system that truly lives up

to its name. End quote. There's also been many people online voicing their opinions on the timing of the pleadial and wondering if it coincides with Judge Hippler's decision to investigate the source of leaked information that was subject to his gag order. Well, Kaley Gonzalez's father, Steve, has similar questions as documented in his recent interview on News Nation with Ashley Banfield. Let's listen to what he had to say. I would say ever since Hippler has demanded an independent investigation, they couldn't get away from this case fast enough. They've done everything to make this case go away. So I don't know what that. tales, but he said he was going to have an independent investigator and all of a sudden we seemed like we were on rails to get rid of this case and make a plea deal. I mean, he's guilty. We all know he's guilty. There's more than enough evidence, but it's tough. It's tough to put a community through this. And it could be bad for reputations and business identities and there's fallout. But, um,

this isn't the will of the victims. This is just one person making a decision and it doesn't reflect what we were asking for. That interview came just moments after the news broke and it's possible Steve spoke out of anger in the heat of the moment. Still, he's not alone and suspecting that the state may be trying to wrap up the case in hopes that the leak investigation will quietly fade away with it. However many were hoping that Judge Hippler would make it clear that the investigation, into the violation would continue regardless of the plea deal. After all, someone clearly broke the gag order and in doing so broke the law. A plea deal doesn't erase that fact. After having a chance to cool off and come to terms with the new reality, the Gonzalez family told ABC News that they

contacted prosecutors on Tuesday and asked for the terms of Brian's deal to be amended. They wanted him to be required to give a full confession, including the location of the alleged murder weapon, that K-bar knife. However, the family said that prosecutors turned down their request and that the offer could not legally be changed. But the state will ask the court's permission to include a factual summary of the evidence against Brian and said that more information about his actions would be presented at his sentencing hearing. While we hadn't yet heard from Madison Mogan's family, the family of Ethan Chapin said in a brief statement that they'll be in Boise for the hearing in quote, support of the plea bargain, end quote.

They may be on the side of people who believe that a life sentence without parole is the best outcome for everyone. With no chances for appeal, Brian could theoretically just fade into the abyss of the prison system and save taxpayers millions of dollars that come with high profile capital cases and appeals. But some people are worried that even though Brian is saying that he waives his right to an appeal, he might find a way, whether that be way down the line to figure something out. Right now, they think he's just worried about saving his life and taking away the death penalty. That would give him a lot of time to think, plan, and scheme. Generally, if a defendant has taken a plea deal and

knowingly waive their right to appeal, then obviously they cannot appeal their conviction or sentence later. However, there are some exceptions, one being ineffective assistance of counsel, which is ironic since Anne Taylor brought up potential ineffective assistance of counsel in their motion for a continuance. That's just something to think about. Others have pointed out that there is a serious difference between someone spending life in prison and spending life on death row. Let's listen to what Kaylee's father said about this. People need to stand up to these monsters and stop freaking bowing down to them and giving them child care. I mean, prison is nothing but adult child care.

You get free vision, you get free dental, you get free mails, you get AC, room and board, cable TV, internet access. It's ridiculous what we give our prisoners. I wonder if there's any solace at all in knowing that this can't happen to him at this point. There can be no appeal, there can be not one squeak from Brian Coburger after he accepts that sentence at the end. of this month, much like, unlike what happened in Arizona, where there is always a chance the jury does not choose death. Is there any solace in the fact that you will at least have him silenced and there will be no appeals? Absolutely zero. None. Could be no farther than how we believe. I want my community support. I want that jury to make the decision, not Thompson,

not some old man who's 70 freaking years old deciding how my daughter's life weighs in a courtroom. That is not justice. That is not justice at all. I'll take my juries. I'll take my peers all day long. I'm sick of one man deciding or one woman deciding what a life's worth. In addition to the reaction of the plea deal, there's also been a newly released interview with someone from Brian's past and who would have definitely been called as a witness during trial.

Dr. Catherine Ramsland is a professor of forensic psychology at DeSales University. She taught Brian in four classes, including courses on forensic psychology, death investigations, and dangerous minds, like psychology of antisocial behavior. Rambley said that Brian seemed eager to be in the classroom. He was polite, respectful, intense, and curious. When she first got word that Brian had been arrested for the Idaho four murders, Ramzlin said she was completely stunned and doubted it was true. She said, quote, this has to be wrong.

It's not the Brian Coburger, I know, end quote. However, she found it odd that Brian wasn't offering an alibi. When Brian finally said that he had been out driving around looking at stars, the night of the murders, Ramzlin thought, quote, that's not an alibi. and you know it, end quote. Now she believes it makes sense why he would decide to enter a guilty plea rather than go

to trial. She said, quote, once the judge took away every option that he couldn't use his alibi, couldn't use an alternate suspect, there was nothing left. And now he's facing a lot of evidence piled up and the death penalty. So it did not surprise me,

end quote. Although she isn't surprised, Bramseland wonders whether her curriculum may have influenced Brian to commit the murders at the same time. She acknowledges that the very same material might have inspired someone else to become an FBI agent or pursue a career in public service. She said, quote, in this field, that's what we live with, end quote.

So with all of that, let's get into what took place during the plea hearing. Did Judge Hippler take into account some of the family's opposition? Did he reject the deal? Or did he compel Brian to tell the full truth of what took place before accepting a guilty plea. Let's find out.

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3.3%. 3% base API as of January 30th, 2026, is representative variable and earned on funds swept to program banks. 0.65% new client boost for three months on up to $150,000. Direct deposit $1,000 a month and fund an investing account for a 0.25% increase. Cash account offered by Wealthfront Brokeridge LLC, member FINRA, SIPC, not a bank. According to those present at the hearing, the courtroom pulsed with an almost suffocating tension. After accompanying his family inside Steve Gonzalez, he chose to leave, admitting he just couldn't stand to be in there. Judge Hippler read off the case number while everyone

sat in somber and almost awkward silence. He announced that today they would be entertaining a change of plea, but before that there were some issues of concern that needed to be addressed. He made it clear that there were to be no outburst or demonstrations as he was undoubted. aware that emotions were running high through those in attendance. He also stated that members of the public have contacted him and his office in an attempt to influence his decision making in this case. Steve Gonzalez actually requested for people to get in contact with Judge Hipler to voice their concerns during his interview on News Nation. But Hitler said this has been extraordinarily disruptive for court staff and the ability for them to get work done, not only in this

case, but in others where defendants and victims are entitled to have their cases processed. He said that it's also highly inappropriate, and the court is not supposed to and will never take into account public sentiment in making an opinion regarding its judicial decisions. Hipler said he will make his decisions based on where the facts and the law lead him, period. Therefore, he has not read any of the messages or listen to any of the voicemails he has received, they have all been forwarded to security and law enforcement where appropriate. He asked that people stop trying to mount campaigns like this because they aren't anything that he will ever take into account. Next, Judge Hippler said that he wanted people to understand a few concepts about the separation

of powers, meaning what the court's duties are and what the duties and rights of the prosecuting attorney are. The elected prosecutor is a sole authority in deciding what charges and penalties to ask for and to pursue, including the death penalty. The court cannot require the prosecutor to seek the death penalty, nor would it be appropriate for the court to attempt to do so. If the court were to reject a plea agreement, it cannot force the state to seek the death penalty. The judge's role and power in considering a plea agreement is extremely limited. The judge ensures that the defendant's plea is given freely, voluntarily, and intelligently. If those things are met, the judge can only reject the plea if the defendant does not admit to all of the elements of the crime.

This means he has to ensure a factual basis to the plea. Finally, Judge Hipler said that he wanted to offer his apologies to all of the families, including the victims and Brian's family, with a short notice of today's hearing. Like everyone else, he had no inkling of the potential deal beforehand and was under the belief that this case was headed to trial. After learning about the deal, he needed to get this hearing underway as quickly as possible in case they were able to avoid the costly and time-consuming process of bringing in nearly 10,000 people for voir dire. That way, if the plea fell through, they would be able to continue as scheduled. With that said, Hipler moved on to discussing the plea deal agreed upon by the state and the

defense. The written plea agreement indicated, quote, in some, the defendant will plea. guilty to all five counts in the indictment, felony burglary, and four counts of first-degree murder. The state and the defendant stipulate that is that the defense is not free to argue for a lesser sentence to the following. The defendant on the burglary charge will be sentenced to 10 years, fixed, and the defendant on the four counts of first-degree homicide would receive a fixed life sentence to run consecutive to one another. As part of the plea agreement, the defendant waives his rights to appeal as well as the right to appeal the sentence,

and to seek leniency or reconsideration of the sentence, end quote. Judge Hippler went on to say that this is not a Rule 11 agreement, meaning the court is not bound by the agreement and could impose a different lawful sentence as sentencing. However, the stipulated agreement is already the maximum on each count, so theoretically, all he could give would be a lesser sentence. Next, Judge Hippler asked defense attorney Ann Taylor if she's had sufficient time to discuss the case and all the ramifications with Brian.

She said she has and he knows his rights, defenses and consequences of the guilty plea. He also knows that he must provide truthful and accurate answers to the court in taking the plea and understands all of his options. Hippler then had some questions directly for Brian to ensure that he understands the nature of the charges, the possible consequences, and that the plea was given voluntarily. He also had to make sure that Brian actually committed the crimes that he is pleading guilty to because he doesn't want him to plead guilty to any crimes he did not commit. With that said, Brian raised his right hand to swear an oath to tell the truth.

Judge Hipler said that the burglary charge carries a possible fine of up to $50,000 in a period of incarceration of up to 10 years in the Idaho State Penitentiary. He may also be required to pay restitution to any victims of the crime. The four first-degree murder charges include a fine of up to $50,000 and a period of incarceration of life in prison with a mandatory minimum of at least 10 years on each count. He may be responsible for a fine of up to $5,000 to each of the victims of the crime to be enforced in the form of a civil judgment to operate as additional punishment in excess of any restitution or fines the court could order.

You will be required to provide a DNA sample, thumb print, and press. and pay for analysis of those samples. He would lose any right to possess firearms, serve on jury duty, hold public office, and the right to vote. Brian said that he understands all of these stipulations. When asked, Brian said that he agrees with the plea agreement and understands all of the charges that he is pleading guilty of. He said that he is pleading guilty because he is guilty.

Next, Judge Hippler went over the things the same. state would have had to find Brian guilty of had he not decided to plead guilty. The state would have had to prove that on or about November 13th, 2022 in Leyta County, Idaho, Brian unlawfully entered a residence located at 112-2-King Road in Moscow with the intent to commit the felony crime of murder. They would have to also prove that on or about that same day, Brian willfully, unlawfully and deliberately with premeditation and malice of forethought, killed and murdered. Madison Mogan, Kaylee Gonzalez, Ethan Chapin, and Zana Kernodal, human beings by stabbing them in which they died. Brian said that he understands the state no longer has to prove those things because he is

admitting they are true. With the guilty form, Brian also provided a document called a written factual basis. Let's listen to Judge Hippler asked him to confirm the fact that in this document because it's actually pretty surreal to hear him say even just a simple yes out loud. Let me ask you, did you on November 13, 2022 enter the residence at 112 King Road in Moscow, Idaho, with the intent to commit the felony crime of murder? Yes. Did you, on November 13, 2022, do in Latow County State of Idaho, kill and murder Madison Mogan, a human being? Yes.

And did you do that willfully, unlawfully, deliberately, and with premeditation and malice of forethought? Yes. Did you honor about that same date in Moscow, Idaho, kill and murder Kaylee Gonzalez, a human being? Yes. And did you do that willfully, unlawfully, deliberately and with premeditation and malice of forethought.

Yes. And did you on that same date in Moscow, Idaho, kill and murder, Zana, kernel, pardon me, a human being? Yes. And did you do that willfully, unlawfully, deliberately with premeditation and malice of forethought? Yes. And then on, we're about November 13th, 2022, again in Latow County, Idaho. Did you kill and murder Ethan Chapin, a human

being. Yes. Did you do that willfully, unlawfully, deliberately with premeditation and malice of forethought? Yes. The state was then given the opportunity to provide their recitation of the factual basis, had this case gone to trial. This is pretty long, but was one of the most important parts of the hearing. Take a listen. The state's evidence as an overview would show that back in March of 2022, to when the defendant was residing at his parents, residents or was fighting back in Pennsylvania, his home state. He purchased online a K-bar knife and sheath

with an Amazon gift card that he had purchased shortly prior to the purchase of the knife, sheaf and sharpener. Jumping ahead, the end of June of that year, the defendant, Mr. Koeberger, moved from Pennsylvania to Pullman, Washington, which is right across the state line from Moscow, Idaho. For the purpose of pursuing a PhD,

and criminal justice at Washington State University. The state's evidence would indicate the beginning July 9th of 2022, Mr. Koeberger's phone began connecting to a cell tower that serves the area of the 1122 King Road residence in Moscow, Idaho. Now I will acknowledge for the court in all present that there are many residences in that area. It's a dense population of mostly college-related occupants. Between July 9th of 2022 and November 7th, the defendant's phone connected to that particular tower

during late night, early morning hours, 10 p.m. to 4 a.m. on approximately 23 times. Now, I will acknowledge also, we do not have evidence that the defendant had direct contact with 1122 or with residents of 1122, but we can't put his phone in that area on those times. In the interim, on August 22nd of 2022, Latow County Sheriff's Deputy Darren Duke conducted a traffic stop in the early morning hour, or late evening hours about 11 p.m.

on the west side of Moscow on Moscow Pullman Road. This was the traffic stop of Mr. Coburgers car, which turned out to be a 2015 white Hyundai-Lontra with Pennsylvania plates. During the course of the traffic stop, Deputy Duke was able to obtain Mr. Koeberger's name, Brian Koberger, his phone number and his address, which at that point was an apartment address in Pullman.

We then move to the early morning hours of November 13th, 2022. The state's evidence would show that early morning hours on that day, Mr. Kovberger's phone left his Pullman residence, which is an apartment in kind of the north, central northwest part of Poland. That phone was then subsequently turned off at approximately 254 a.m.

and remained off until approximately 4.48 a.m. on Sunday the 13th November. The state's evidence includes, would include a trial, Viti surveillance of a business on the Moscow-Polm highway just across the state. state line from Moscow. It would show a vehicle matching the description of the defendant's Hyundai Alantra entering Moscow at approximately 302 AM. Compiled surveillance that the investigators put together

from businesses and residents then show the defendant's car, the white Alontera, as I've described, circling the 1122 King Road area, that neighborhood, starting around 3.30 or so in the morning. comes into the immediate area of 1122 King Road, which section on a dead end, and then leaves several times. Approximately 405 that morning, the fence car had entered that area, was leaving, stopped at the intersection

of King and Queen Road did a U-turn, and the state's evidence would show that Fendant's car came back and parked behind and above the 1122 King Road, residents. The state believes that its evidence would then show that the defendant entered the residence of 1122 through the kitchen sliding door on the back side of the residence, which is the side of the residence that would face the area above where the defendant's car was parked. Defendant entered the residence, went to the third floor, and with a knife killed Madison

Mogan and Caitlin's office. The defendant, as he left that room for whatever reason, ended up leaving or the sheath for a K-bar knife was left on the bed next to Madison Mowgan's body. And I can jump ahead. That sheath was tested by the Idaho State Police Forensic Lab and single source male DNA was found on the snap of that sheet, as well as blood from both Kaylee and Madison and other trace evidence. but it's important to know single source male DNA was on the snap of that sheet. The state's evidence would show that Zana Knoodle was still awake at this time. In fact, had taken a door dash order not long before this started. Her room was not on the third floor. It was on the second floor on the west side.

As the defendant was either coming down the stairs or leaving, he encountered Zana and he ended up killing her. Also with a large knife. Ethan Chapin, Zama's boyfriend, was asleep in their bedroom, in her bedroom, and the defendant killed him as well with a large fixed-bed line. Each victim suffered multiple wounds. I will state for the record that there is no evidence

there was any sexual component or sexual assault on any of the victims. I want to make that clear, so there's no speculation. There were two other roommates in the house, and they were already asleep. During the course of this, one of those roommates awoke, looked out her door not knowing what was going on, and saw the defendant who was dressed in black

with black belt cob on holding some sort of container in his hand. And she saw him leave the house through the direction of the kitchen where that sliding door is that I mentioned before. At approximately 420 that morning, so this would have been 15 minutes or so later, Finn's car is seen on a surveillance camera for 1112 King Road, which is immediately next door to the west of 1122,

leaving the area at a high rate of speed. And if the court were to see that or anybody in this courtroom would see that, you can see the car almost loses control as it makes the corner heads north and then turns to go south on Walentah, which is one of the only ways to get out of that part of town. The evidence would show,

that following that the defendant in his Alonra drove south of Moscow. We know that he drove on the back roads because there are surveillance cameras on the main highways highway 95 that would have picked up the defendant's car if he'd gone that route and they did not show the defendant's car on that route during the time. So we know that he went through variety of backroads and very rural isolated part of Latow county about 448 that morning the defendant's phone comes back on. And the evidence will show that that phone was located south of Moscow, likely at a side road intersection

with highway 95. From there, the defendant's phone activity tracks heading back north towards Pullman, Washington, where the defendant lived. About 526, starting approximately 526, various surveillance cameras in Pullman, Washington pick up the defendant's vehicle, has he enters Pullman from,

the south and heads north and slightly west towards his apartment where he arrived at approximately 5.30 in the morning. Later that morning, this still this Sunday, the 13th of November of 2022, Mr. Coburg's phone returned to the area of King Road. We don't know exactly what he did, but it returned to that area. It's about 9 o'clock in the morning. It's there for about 10 minutes and then return to his Pullman residence. About 9.30, which states evidence will show, evidence taken from the defendant's phone, that he took a selfie of himself on his phone

and what appears to be the bathroom of his Pullman apartment with a thumbs up. The defendant's phone then went to the Lewis and Clarkston Valley, approximately 30 miles south of Moscow and Pullman. And the defendant has actually seen with his car at various businesses down there. This area is the confluence of the Clearwater River and the Snake River. Lewiston is Idaho's seaport, large bodies of moving water down there.

In addition to tracing the defendant's activities, as I've just outlined on the 13th and leading up to the 13th, the state's evidence will show that following Sunday, November 13th of 2022, business records show that the defendant began searching for, or a K-bar knife and a K-bar knife sheath, as the state believes, to replace the one that was left at the scene of the murders. The evidence also will suggest that there were at least attempts by the defendant to delete or alter

his purchase history on Amazon where all these transactions had occurred. Later that week, the state's evidence showed that Mr. Koeberger went to what we would call DMV, motor vehicle licensing here in Idaho, in Pullman to change his car registration from Pennsylvania to Washington. That's of note because Pennsylvania cars do not require a front license plate.

The vehicles seen on the surveillance cameras in its cars showed it didn't have a front license plate on it. At the time of the traffic stopped by Deputy Duke in August, Pennsylvania plate of a front license plate. Mr. Coberger proceeded to finish his semester of studies at Washington State University and returned to Pennsylvania for the holidays. Law enforcement at this point were aware of Mr. Koberger had been accessing information about him, we're trying to find him. They located him in Pennsylvania and they conducted what's called a trash

pool during the nighttime hours, agents of the FBI who assisted immensely with this case. working with the sanitation department back in this neighborhood in Pennsylvania, took trash that had been set out on the street for collection, sent the contents of that from the Pennsylvania residents of the defendant's parents to the Idaho State Friends Laboratory, where the lab experts there were able to identify DNA on a Q-tip as coming from the father of the father of the hospital the person whose DNA was found on the ninth sheath.

It was next to Madison Mooggan's body and the bed. Subsequently, an arrest warrant was issued here in Idaho and a search warrant was issued in the state of Pennsylvania with the assistance not only of the FBI, but the Pennsylvania State Police. Mr. Coburger was arrested at his parents' home to return to Idaho. Upon his return to Idaho, a DNA sample was taken from him

and it matched. the DNA found on the knife sheath next to Maddie's body at the crime scene. I can tell the court in the public the weapon itself, the knife, has not yet been recovered. I can tell the court that the defendant's apartment in Pullman was searched as well as his office. Spartan would be a kind characterization.

There was virtually nothing there. Nothing of evidentiary value was found. And of course, we are now talking six, eight weeks, after the time of the killings. In Pennsylvania, the defendant's car was seized, and it was actually pretty much disassembled internally. And it also had been clean. There was a bucket of clean and right beside it. I think we can all look to our own cars, you know, in those compartments in the doors, you can try to keep them clean where you put stuff. There's always some degree of crud in there. They were spotless. Vince Carr had been meticulously cleaned inside. And the state would present to the jury that that was part of the defendant's plan in covering up this. The defendant has studied crime. In fact, he did a detailed paper on crime scene processing when he was working on his pre-doctorate degrees.

And he had that knowledge and skill. So, Your Honor, at the end, the state submits the evidence that I've given just quick overview of, of and that presenting court would consume weeks, which the state is prepared to do and has been prepared to do, which show that as the defendant has just admitted and pleaded guilty, on November 13th, 2022, excuse me, Ms. Coburger entered the residence 1122 King Road in Moscow, Idaho. He did that with the intent to kill.

We will not represent that he intended to commit all of the murders that he did that night, but we know, that that is what resulted and that he then killed intentionally, willfully, deliberately with premeditation and with malice forethought, Maddie Mogan, Kaylee Gonzalez, Ethan Chapin, and Santa Cruz. Thank you. Thank you. Introducing Taco Bell's new jalapeno citrus salsa with bright citrus, real red jalapinos, guahillo chilis. Usually, you add sauce to the food. But when the sauce is this good, the food is just there to get the sauce to your mouth.

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Get started today at Wealthfront.com. Clients were paid $1,000 for their testimonials creating a conflict. of interest. Outcomes vary. 3.3%. Base API Y as of January 30th, 2026 is representative variable and earned on funds swept to program banks. 0.65% new client boosts for three months on up to $150,000. Direct deposit $1,000 a month and fund an investing account for a 0.25% increase. Cash account offered by Wealthfront Brokerage LLC member FINRA SIPC, not a bank. These eligibility requirements may apply to certain checking features of the cash account. Wow. I know many people have been frustrated with this outcome, but hearing prosecutor

Thompson get emotional when reading the victim's names is tough. We will come back to that in a bit. But yeah, that was hard to hear. So following the statement, Judge Hibbler said that based on the state's proffer and Brian's admission, the court finds that there is a factual basis. Then ask Brian to give his pleas, let's watch. With respect to Count 1, burglary felony, how do you plead, Mr. Coburger, guilty or not guilty? guilty. As to count two, murder in the first degree as it relates to the murder of Madison, Mogan. How do you plead guilty or not guilty? Guilty. As to count three, as it relates to murder in the first degree for the murder of Kaylee Gonzalez, how do you plead guilty or not guilty? Guilty. As to count four, the first degree murder of Xana Kurnodal, pardon me, a human being, how do you plead guilty or not guilty?

Guilty. As to count five, the first degree murder of Ethan Chapin, a human being, how do you plead? Guilty or not guilty? Guilty. Right. The court will find that the defendant understands the nature of the charges and each offense and the possible consequences to him of his guilty plea. Court finds that there is a factual basis for the plea and that finds the defendant believes the plea to be in his best interest. I find that the plea was given freely, voluntarily, and was intelligently made.

I accept the plea. I direct that it be entered. Well, there we have it. Judge Hippler accepted Brian's plea. Guilty, guilty, guilty. Hibler said that all of the victims' families will have the opportunity to give statements as sentencing and the state and defense will be able to present other documents such as sentencing memorandums. A sentencing memorandum outlines each party's position on what the appropriate sentence should be and why. So maybe we will get to hear why the state has decided against the death penalty. The sentencing will take place at 9 a.m. on July 23rd and will continue on July 24th if necessary. The non-dissemination order or gag order will stay in effect until after sentencing as well at the state's request. The evidence

outlined was mostly information we already knew with a few more details here and there. But now hearing it all laid out together reinforced a stronger case and argument for the death penalty. Many found it frustrating that there were no stipulations requiring Brian to explain exactly what he did and why. I guess the court can't legally compel someone to give a reason why, but the unanswered questions will cast a shadow over this case forever, unless Brian chooses to talk. That's the thing. Everything's going forward and it will now be Brian's choice and on Brian's time. But will he ever tell us why he chose that house? Who he was there to kill and why? Why did he do it?

That is still the most haunting question. The state even said that they don't think Brian intended on killing all of the victims. But that's what ultimately happened. And now we may never know. Let's listen to what this former prosecutor had to say when talking to Megan Kelly right after the hearing. Take a listen. I sat on our death penalty special circumstance committee for 15 years in Orange County. And essentially what you do in a special circumstances murder like this,

special circumstances murder, is you go through the law piece by piece, and you weigh the aggravating versus mitigating circumstances. And you go through those very carefully. What are the factors in aggravation? What are the factors in mitigation? And from that, we would make a recommendation at the elected DA who then makes a very somber decision whether or not to seek the death penalty or life without possibility of parole. We only sought death in less, over the course of those 15 years, less than 4% of the cases, Megan. This case screams out for the death penalty.

So my big question here is what changed? Because it's unethical to file a death enhancement or to seek the death penalty with the idea that you are extracting a plea on. I'm not saying this prosecutor did that, but when you hear the evidence, for me, listening to the fact that he got a K-bar on Amazon before we moved out, I think that's a new fact. I knew about the phones. I knew about the rest of it. This is an overwhelming case. So again, what changed other than him deciding, other than Poverker, asking to plead guilty that changed the assessment that this was a death penalty case? And it is at the end, and I don't like to, being a problem.

prosecutor is a tough job. I acknowledge that. I did it for 26 years. So I'm reluctant to criticize, you know, because it is a tough position. But if he choked up at the end, I think that we listened to the DA choke up at the end. He did. As you talked about that. It's like, dude, you gave this guy a break. And we didn't hear one single thing that changed in your assessment between the aggravating and the mitigating factors. We didn't hear anything. We didn't hear anything about a new story of abuse, some piece of evidence that wasn't going to be admitted, nothing changed. And one of those families is irate. And you don't, it's like the old saying, there's no crying in baseball. There's no crying in when you're in the prosecution business and you're talking about the slaughter of four

innocent kids when you're giving the defendant a break. The big winner today, I hate to say it, is Brian Koberger. And I am, I'm just, I was frustrated listening to that. And I, I, I got no problem calling him out. Unless there was something to change behind the scenes that we didn't hear about today, I think that they should have proceeded with the death penalty. Well said. Nothing changed, Howard. Nothing changed other than Brian Colberger's willingness to take the plea.

It is such a cynical decision on the part of the state to make this plea bargain. Other professionals have commented on prosecutor Thompson saying multiple times that there are still things we don't know. still things unclear, which will likely remain that way now that there will be no trial. Some are even criticizing the state's request to continue the gag order until after sentencing and think that it's another tactic to keep the details as quiet as possible for as long as possible. At the end of the day, this deal was in the state's hands. When Brian's team pitched them a plea deal, they could have said no.

They could have continued to seek the death penalty, but for some reason, they chose not to and nothing that was said sheds any light on that decision. Brian Enton reported sitting right behind Brian Koberger's parents during the hearing today, and it's worth noting that they didn't shed any tears as their son confessed. Perhaps they already knew and helped him arrive at the decision to plead guilty. That is a theory going around as well after Steve Gonzalez said this outside the courthouse before the hearing. He was the only person that was considered me. was good enough of mine.

Do you have any message for co-wrote as family? Yeah, what do you want? We know when you flew out here. We know, we know. We have your flight records. How are you preparing to see him today? I'm not going to see him. When you say you know the flight records, what do you mean, Steve?

I know when his parents booked their flight. When his father did. What does that mean? You'll find out. Would you like to say something to them? So, Maybe Steve's insinuating that Brian's parents flew out beforehand and talked to him about taking a plea in order to avoid the firing squad. Other experts also believe it may have to do with Brian's parents potentially being called as witnesses during the trial.

There are records that show Brian called his mother at 6 a.m. just hours after the murders. And then they had that long car ride back to Pennsylvania with his dad. The state could have asked them to testify about what took place during those conversations. so maybe that played a part in this decision as well. I certainly know that if I was in a position like them, I would encourage my child to plead guilty, to share what he had done. Anyway, after the hearing,

the Gonzalves family released another statement writing, quote, Today was the day, the day for answers, the day to find out what happened, to find out really anything about what the defendant did that night and why he took the lives of four beautiful people. At least that's what we hoped for, but hope is really all we had today. The plea started off with the judge who was angry about people reaching out to him and then went further to stand on his soapbox stating nothing affects his decisions in this case or any other case, and he has not and will not read any comments.

Maybe that wasn't the best way to start a plea involving the murder of four Idaho college students. Our hope is that the judge might reflect back on his decisions today and take the high road next time and not make the plea of a murderer. about him and his decisions. Maybe he will show some empathy to the victim's families who have been in this torture chamber for over two years while he only became involved a few months ago. Then the plea began with the defendant claiming responsibility for his actions with one-word responses.

All were sufficient for the court and the prosecution team because that is what this plea was about today. The court and the prosecution, a plea that makes everything go away for them and lets them get back to their normal routine. This plea did not represent the victim's families, It represented an easy way out and no answers. Everyone loves the justice system until you get involved in it.

Then you really see that most of the time the cases and resolutions have nothing to do with the victims. At least that was our experience. We will move on to sentencing and will be hopeful that the court will allow for some much-needed grace moving forward. And finally, the family won't have to deal with the bumbling Lodak County prosecution team. Once again, we want to thank everyone for their continued support and prayers and appreciate everyone that has gone on this journey with us. end quote. There was also a press conference with the victim's rights attorney representing the Mogan family. Let's listen to what he has to say on behalf of the family. We lost our Maddie, our kind, loving, vivacious, and caring daughter full of purpose and promise. We are grateful

for the gift of her life. And we have grieved the loss of that life during each of these 962 days. We love you, Maddie, and we miss you. We are grateful for the gift of the young, vivacious, promising lives of Kay Lee, Zana, and Ethan. And we deeply, deeply mourn their senseless loss. We remain in solidarity with our families and friends. And we continue to shower them with our prayers and support. We are grateful for their prayers, love and support, that they have given us. They have helped us and sustained us during our darkest times.

We are grateful to the prosecutor, Bill Thompson, and his dedicated and caring team, including victim coordinators, Kim and Stacey, who have helped to guide us through the sometimes confusing and disorienting legal process. Thank you for all your dedicated, diligent, and tireless commitment to justice and the successful outcome reached today. We support the plea agreement 100%.

While we know there are some who do not support it, we ask that they respect our belief that this is the best outcome possible for the victims, their families, and the state of Idaho. We extend our deep gratitude to the many law enforcement officers and staff who work tirelessly to obtain the critical evidence that brought justice today, including the Moscow Police Department, the FBI, the Idaho State Patrol, and the Lata County Sheriff's Department. We are deeply grateful to Judge Hipler and Judge John Judge before him. We thank you for your diligence, thoughtfulness, and judicial guidance. We appreciate the difficult work you have done to balance the rights of all involved and to uphold the rule of law. You have had our prayers and support throughout this case.

So now we know that both the Mogan and Chapin-Feefean, family seem to be in agreement with the pleadial. They want this pleadial. As we know, the death penalty is a divisive issue. And for some families, life in prison without parole is justice. Grief and justice are both deeply personal. What brings comfort to one family may not feel like enough to another. We should also consider how the parents of the surviving roommates are feeling with this decision. Both Dylan and Bethany have already endured unimaginable. trauma. For them, this plea may bring a measure of relief, sparing them from the retramatization of a trial and from having to relive that horrible day under a national spotlight,

intensified by years of cruel speculation and online scrutiny. There is rarely ever a perfect resolution, but for some, this may be the first step toward healing. At this point, it seems the decision is final, and we really have no other choice but to try. to move forward. The outcome may not be what many would have hoped, but one thing is certain. Brian Coburger will spend the rest of his life behind bars. Brian Coburger says he is guilty of this crime. The reality may not bring comfort or closure to everyone, but it does guarantee that he will never be able to kill another person again. As he fades into the obscurity of his prison cell, the focus can return to what truly matters, honoring the lives of

Maddie, Kaylee, Ethan, and Zana. They deserve to be remembered, not for the horror that took them, but for the light, love, and joy they brought into the world. We'll continue to keep you updated on any new developments, including sentencing, where family and friends' voices will finally have a chance to be heard. Who knows? Maybe we'll even hear from Brian himself. But for that, We will have to wait and see. At my bank, I was literally getting pennies using Wealthfronts. Chiching! Meet Angela, a wealthfront cash account client since 2023.

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