Prosecutors in Idaho have uncovered a college essay written by student murder suspect Bryan Kohberger, revealing his knowledge of crime scene investigation techniques. The essay, written during finals for a criminal justice course in 2020, described the use of protective gear such as fiber-free overalls, gloves, and booties to prevent contamination of a crime scene with DNA and fingerprints. The police found little evidence at the crime scene where Kohberger allegedly killed four University of Idaho undergraduates, but a Ka-Bar knife sheath with his DNA was discovered under one of the victims.
The essay also discussed other aspects of crime scene investigation, highlighting the importance of protecting the location, the use of circumstantial evidence, and the potential for domestic partners to be suspects. Experts believe that prosecutors will use Kohberger’s knowledge of forensic evidence and crime scene protection against him during the trial. While Kohberger demonstrated a deep understanding of crime scene procedures in the essay, investigators also noted some mistakes and inconsistencies in his analysis of crime scene dynamics.
Despite his knowledge of forensic techniques, Kohberger may have made errors in his essay that do not align with his alleged actions on the night of the murders. For example, his reference to staging as a common practice in crime scenes is challenged by experts who believe that most crime scene actions are driven by emotion and impulsivity rather than premeditation. Additionally, the timeline of events on the night of the murders suggests that Kohberger would not have had the opportunity to stage the crime scene as described in the essay.
Kohberger’s essay raises questions about his understanding of crime scene investigation practices and the potential discrepancies between his theoretical knowledge and the actual events of the murders. Despite his academic background in criminology and forensic science, his actions on the night of the killings do not necessarily align with the advice and recommendations he provided in the essay. As his trial approaches, prosecutors are likely to use his words against him to demonstrate his knowledge of processing crime scenes and his potential involvement in the murders.
The trial for Bryan Kohberger, charged with four counts of first-degree murder and burglary, is set to begin in August, with jury selection scheduled for July. Kohberger faces the death penalty if convicted. The victims of the murders were University of Idaho students Madison Mogen, Kaylee Goncalves, Xana Kernodle, and Ethan Chapin. The case has garnered significant attention due to the brutality of the crimes and Kohberger’s background in criminology, adding a layer of complexity to the investigation and legal proceedings.
