Goncalves Family Slams Judge and Prosecutors After Kohberger Plea

The family of Kaylee Goncalves, one of the University of Idaho students murdered, has expressed strong criticism of the judge and prosecutors following Bryan Kohberger's guilty plea. Kohberger admitted to the stabbing deaths of Goncalves, Ethan Chapin, Xana Kernodle, and Madison Mogen in their off-campus home on November 13, 2022. This plea occurred just weeks before the scheduled trial.

The Goncalves family's statement to NewsNation revealed their dissatisfaction with the hearing's proceedings. They specifically criticized Judge Steven Hippler's initial remarks, which included expressing anger over public outreach and asserting his impartiality. The family felt this was an inappropriate way to begin a hearing concerning the murders of the four students.

The family's statement further expressed their hope that the judge would reflect on his decisions and not make the plea about himself. They also suggested that the judge and Latah County Prosecuting Attorney Bill Thompson were primarily focused on returning to their normal routines. The family felt the plea was structured to benefit the court and prosecution, allowing them to move past the case.

During the hearing, Kohberger responded with "yes" when asked if he had murdered each student. When asked how he pleaded to each charge, he responded with "guilty."

The Goncalves family had previously expressed their outrage at the plea deal when it was announced. They stated their disappointment with the State of Idaho and requested time to process the unexpected development. Aubrie, the youngest member of the Goncalves family, stated that the system had failed the victims' families. She noted the plea deal's timing was shocking and cruel, as it offered little time for the families to adjust to the possibility of a life sentence. She also highlighted the disparity between Kohberger's future, which would include the ability to interact with the world, and the victims' permanent silence.

In contrast, Madison Mogen's family welcomed the plea deal, believing it would allow them to grieve without the stress of a lengthy trial and potential appeals.

Bryan Kohberger's family has requested privacy and responsible judgment from the media. They stated they would allow the legal process to proceed without further comment.

Kohberger is scheduled to be sentenced on July 23 at the Ada County Courthouse in Boise, Idaho.