Did Bryan Kohberger Think He Would Get Away with Murder?

In the complex case against Bryan Kohberger, accused of the tragic murders at Moscow, Idaho, the array of evidence and its impact on a potential jury raises numerous questions. On the podcast "Hidden Killers" with Tony Brueski, psychotherapist and author Shavaun Scott delved into these nuances, offering a fresh perspective on what might resonate with jurors in the upcoming trial.

Central to their discussion was the Investigative Genetic Genealogy (IGG) evidence, which, while crucial in generating leads, is reportedly not being used to obtain warrants. This decision to share IGG evidence with Kohberger’s defense as part of discovery, although unlikely to be a game-changer in the trial, presents a pivotal moment in the case. As Scott points out, “It’s always very important that the defense is privy and able to see what is available.”

However, it's the digital footprint that might hold the most weight in court. "I think [digital evidence] is more powerful for jurors than the DNA because it shows the thought process," Scott emphasized. The potential revelations from Kohberger's Google search history and social media interactions could offer a direct window into his mind, something far more telling than DNA in understanding motive and premeditation.

Eyewitness accounts, such as the housemate who reported seeing a masked man resembling Kohberger, also play a significant role. Although traditionally strong evidence, Scott acknowledges the potential for flawed memory and suggests that the impact of eyewitness testimony may vary among jurors. “Eyewitness accounts, particularly in the context of all these other things, very likely will be significant,” she noted.

An intriguing aspect of Kohberger's background is his criminology studies. Scott discussed the dual nature of such an academic pursuit, which could either depict him as an altruistic individual or hint at a darker fascination with criminality. She drew parallels with notorious figures like the Golden State Killer and the BTK killer, both of whom had criminology backgrounds and later committed heinous crimes.

A particularly chilling element is Kohberger's online questionnaire for his research project at DeSales University. The questions, while standard in criminal psychology, acquire an ominous tone in light of the allegations against him. Scott explained, “Those are exactly the kinds of questions I would ask because you're looking for the pattern in the criminal thinking.”

As the conversation wrapped up, Brueski and Scott agreed that the digital evidence, particularly the Google search history, could be the most revealing. "My money is on Google," Brueski speculated, suggesting that Kohberger's online activity might provide the most shocking insights into his psyche.

The conversation with Shavaun Scott on "Hidden Killers" presented a nuanced view of the various forms of evidence in the Bryan Kohberger case. From the technicalities of IGG evidence to the potentially revealing digital footprints, the discussion underscored the complex interplay of factors that will influence juror perceptions in this high-stakes trial. As the world awaits the unfolding of this case, these insights offer a deeper understanding of what lies ahead in the courtroom.

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The latest on Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

Release date

Lydbog: 12. december 2023