Bryan Kohberger, the suspect in the University of Idaho student murders, is pushing to ban certain words and phrases from his upcoming trial, including the unusual term “bushy eyebrows.”
His legal team argues that using this phrase in court could unfairly prejudice the jury against him.
In a set of motions filed on February 24, Kohberger’s defense requested that the judge prohibit multiple terms from being used during the proceedings, including “murder,” “psychopath,” and “sociopath.”
Among these, “bushy eyebrows” stands out due to its connection to a key eyewitness account.
Eyewitness Account and Defense Pushback
One of the surviving roommates, Dylan Mortensen, previously told investigators that she saw a masked figure leaving the crime scene and distinctly remembered the person having “bushy eyebrows.”
This detail became a central part of the case, as it was one of the few descriptions of the suspect on the night of the murders.
However, Kohberger’s legal team argues that Mortensen’s recollection is unreliable and should not be admitted in court.
They claim her memory was influenced by stress and that she previously mentioned having lucid dreams, which could blur her perception of reality.
Additionally, the defense pointed out that Mortensen had drawn artwork featuring exaggerated eyebrows, suggesting that her focus on this detail may not be entirely objective.
The Murders That Shook a Community
The brutal killings of Madison Mogen, Kaylee Goncalves, Xana Kernodle, and Ethan Chapin on November 13, 2022, shocked the nation.
The four University of Idaho students were found stabbed to death inside their home in Moscow, Idaho, sending waves of fear through the small college town.
For nearly six weeks, the case remained unsolved, sparking intense speculation.
Then, on December 30, 2022, authorities arrested Kohberger, a criminology PhD student from Washington State University, at his parents’ home in Pennsylvania.
The Role of DNA and Eyewitness Testimony
Kohberger’s arrest was based on several pieces of evidence, including DNA found on a knife sheath left at the crime scene, surveillance footage of a white Hyundai Elantra matching his vehicle, and cellphone records placing him near the victims’ home on multiple occasions.
However, new court filings have revealed additional DNA evidence that could complicate the case.
According to reports, a mixture of DNA from three individuals was found under one victim’s fingernails.
While the identities of these individuals remain unclear, Kohberger’s defense claims that he cannot be conclusively linked to the sample.
The defense is also seeking to limit the use of forensic evidence in court, arguing that the prosecution’s interpretation of DNA findings could mislead the jury.
Legal Battle Over Trial Language
Beyond the “bushy eyebrows” debate, Kohberger’s attorneys are fighting to prohibit words like “murder,” “murderer,” and “murder weapon” from being used in court, arguing that such terms could bias the jury before a verdict is reached.
They also want to prevent witnesses from referring to him as a “psychopath” or “sociopath.”
The prosecution, however, is expected to challenge these requests, emphasizing that the jury must hear the full context of the case.
Death Penalty Debate and Defense Strategy
Kohberger’s legal team is also making a case against the death penalty, citing his autism diagnosis as a reason why he should not face capital punishment.
Meanwhile, the family of one of the victims, Kaylee Goncalves, continues to advocate for the harshest possible sentence, even suggesting that Kohberger should face a firing squad if convicted.
What Comes Next?
Kohberger’s trial is scheduled to begin in August, but legal battles over evidence, terminology, and jury selection are already heating up.
He is next due in court in April, where more pre-trial motions will be addressed.
As both sides prepare their arguments, the trial promises to be one of the most closely watched legal proceedings in recent years.
Whether Kohberger’s requests will be granted remains to be seen, but one thing is certain—this case is far from over.