Bryan Kohberger wants another chance to challenge the guilty plea that sent him to prison for life. His new lawyer also wants the judge who took that plea off the case. On October 14, 2026, Judge Steven Hippler removed the October 15 recusal hearing from the schedule, along with the June 2027 dates set aside for a status conference and possible hearing on Kohberger's claims.
Kohberger pleaded guilty in July 2025 to killing Kaylee Goncalves, Madison Mogen, Xana Kernodle and Ethan Chapin. He told Hippler he was guilty and later received four consecutive life sentences. The post-conviction petition he filed in 2026 alleges his former attorneys provided ineffective assistance and that the plea was not freely made. Prosecutors dispute his claims and seek dismissal without a hearing.
Greg Rauch, the attorney representing him in the challenge, argues Hippler's own words are a problem. At sentencing, the judge sharply condemned Kohberger, and Rauch says those remarks could impair an objective assessment of Kohberger's credibility. He also points to a refused request for more time shortly before the plea. His motion seeks disqualification and a transfer of the proceedings back to Latah County.
Hippler's new calendar does not decide the request to remove him. It gives Kohberger until January 13, 2027, to file an amended petition and sets a July 7 deadline for evidence gathering. Further hearing dates are dependent on what happens with the unresolved motions.
Tony Brueski and attorney Eric Faddis examine what the cancellation actually changes. If prosecutors succeed in having the petition dismissed, the fight could end without an evidence hearing. If it proceeds, the questions surrounding Kohberger's sworn admission and the judge's impartiality may return to the courtroom, with the victims' families drawn through another round.
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