Judge rules prosecutors can seek death penalty against Bryan Kohberger if convicted of Idaho student murders - despite autism diagnosis

A judge has ruled that Bryan Kohberger could face the death penalty if convicted of murdering four University of Idaho students. His defense argues that his autism spectrum disorder reduces his culpability and could lead to wrongful conviction, challenging the appropriateness of capital punishment. However, the judge found that the defense did not sufficiently show how his autism qualifies him for a death penalty exemption. The prosecution is prepared to pursue this course of action based on substantial evidence, notably DNA linking Kohberger to the crime scene.

Hippler stated that Kohberger's attorneys failed to demonstrate that autism spectrum disorder is tantamount to an intellectual disability for exemption from the death penalty.

Prosecutors previously indicated they would seek the death penalty if Kohberger is convicted, pointing to significant evidence linking him to the crime.

Read at New York Post