Coberger Case Gag Order Lifted

An Idaho state judge, Stephen Hippler, has lifted the gag order in the Brian Coberger case. This decision came after a recent petition where prosecutors indicated they did not oppose the media’s request to remove the order, especially considering Coberger’s guilty plea to multiple murder charges.

This order was initially put in place to safeguard Coberger’s right to a fair trial. However, it has become less relevant now that he has admitted to killing four University of Idaho students, including Madison Morgen and Kaylee Goncalves, both 21, along with Zana Carnordal and Ethan Chapin, who were both 20.

Judge Hippler mentioned that lifting the gag order wouldn’t mean all court documents would be available immediately. Instead, they will be released gradually and subject to judicial review. He explained he would begin with the most recent documents from when he started overseeing the case in September, following a venue change.

While the guilty plea includes a waiver of the right to appeal, there may still be avenues available for appeal based on U.S. Supreme Court precedent. Hippler acknowledged this, referencing a previous case that could impact future proceedings.

Initially, prosecutors wanted the gag order to stay until Coberger’s official ruling next week but later changed their stance after reconsidering. The defense, however, opposed lifting the order prematurely.

Thompson, a member of the prosecution team, stated that since Coberger admitted guilt to all charges, the issue of a fair trial was no longer at stake. Nonetheless, the prosecution is choosing not to comment publicly until the ruling is finalized, prioritizing the integrity of the judicial process and the victims’ families.

Coberger pleaded guilty on July 2 to one count of robbery and four counts of first-degree murder. When asked about his plea, he simply affirmed, “Yes.” Prosecutors noted that prior to transferring to Washington State University, Coberger had purchased a knife from Amazon. Moreover, data showed he was near the victims’ off-campus residence numerous times within a five-month span.

They also clarified that there wasn’t any evidence suggesting a sexual motive behind the crimes. Following the murders, authorities reported that Coberger took a self-portrait with a “thumbs up” sign in his Pullman apartment.