Defense for Idaho quadruple murder suspect Bryan Kohberger may cite autism to try to strike death penalty option

Attorneys for the man accused of killing four University of Idaho students have referenced autism spectrum disorder in asking the court to ensure the 30-year-old wouldn’t get the death penalty if convicted, court records show. Bryan Kohberger is accused of killing Madison Mogen, Kaylee Goncalves, Xana Kernodle, and Ethan Chapin in an off-campus home in November 2022. Kohberger’s trial is expected to begin in August; not guilty pleas have been entered on his behalf. His defense recently filed a motion “to Strike Death Penalty RE: Autism Spectrum Disorder.” A “Motion to Redact or Seal Newly Filed Records” was also entered “in Support of their Motion to Strike Death Penalty RE: Autism Spectrum Disorder Under Seal.” As of Wednesday morning, the full documents were not publicly available online. It was not immediately clear whether Kohberger has been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder or if the defense was seeking a diagnosis. The motions mark the latest attempt by Kohberger’s attorneys to remove the possibility of the death penalty. The prosecution recently asked the judge to bar the use of an alibi defense and the claim there was another perpetrator without evidence being shared first. They also asked for some sealed expert testimony on Kohberger’s mental health to not be allowed. Autism spectrum disorder is a neurological and developmental disorder that can affect how people interact, communicate, learn, and behave. Research about autism and crime is limited. Kohberger’s lawyers filed motions last year arguing the state’s intent to seek the death penalty is unconstitutional.