The Latah County Prosecutor’s Office in Idaho has submitted a request for a substantial funding hike to support the upcoming trial of Bryan Kohberger, a suspect charged with quadruple murder, Your Content has learned.
Seeking to cover the necessary expenses, the office has asked commissioners to allocate $135,000, a significant increase compared to the standard $15,000 budget.
Bryan Kohberger stands accused of four counts of first-degree murder and one count of burglary, stemming from the brutal November stabbing deaths of University of Idaho students: Kaylee Goncalves, Madison Mogen, Xana Kernodle, and Ethan Chapin.
Presently held in Latah County Jail, Kohberger’s trial is scheduled to take place between October 2nd and November 12th.
During his arraignment hearing on May 22nd, Mr. Kohberger opted to remain silent, prompting Latah County District Judge John Judge to enter a not-guilty plea on his behalf.
Bill Thompson, the Latah County Prosecutor, addressed the commissioners on Tuesday, outlining the anticipated trial expenses.
These costs include compensating expert witnesses, covering travel fees for witnesses, procuring exhibit displays, and obtaining transcripts.
Thompson emphasized the challenging task of accurately projecting expenses, stating, “We know that it’s not going to be cheap.”
However, he also emphasized the importance of ensuring a proper handling of the case without cutting corners.
Following discussions, Commissioner Kathie LaFortune advised the prosecutor to revise the estimate to $150,000, providing a cushion to account for any unforeseen costs, as reported by the Tribune.
The county commissioners are expected to finalize the annual budget in September, taking into account the funding request for the Bryan Kohberger trial, according The Independent.
—
Your Content for the latest updates. Have a story or news tip? Contact our 24/7 newsroom at 833.336.8013 or e-mail our tip line: [email protected]