Bryan Kohberger judge cracks down on ‘pervasive’ filings under seal in Idaho murders

Ada County Judge Steven Hippler has made a significant decision in the Idaho student murders case, stating that both sides will no longer be able to file a large number of documents under seal, keeping them out of public view. In an order filed on Monday, Hippler expressed concern over the parties’ frequent practice of sealing entire documents rather than redacting specific sensitive information.

“The parties’ pervasive practice of filing material under seal in this case has become the norm rather than the exception,” Hippler wrote. “Rather than seeking to redact discrete sensitive information, entire documents are filed under seal. In addition, much of the material the parties seek to seal is already in the public domain or is simply not confidential or sensitive.”

While the defense team for Bryan Kohberger and state prosecutors can still request redactions for certain information such as the names of witnesses and victim’s family members, Hippler emphasized that the court will only allow documents to be sealed if it is justified under Idaho Court Administrative Rule 32. This rule governs documents that are exempt from public disclosure.

“The parties must also seek the least restrictive method to protect information that should be or is exempt from disclosure,” Hippler stated. He also noted that the court would continue to redact filings that include grand jury testimony, as grand jury proceedings are confidential by default.

The decision comes amidst a high-profile case that has garnered significant public interest both in the U.S. and abroad. The case involves the murders of four University of Idaho students, and the public’s right to access information about the proceedings has been a point of contention.

Neama Rahmani, a former federal prosecutor and trial attorney, expressed concern over the excessive sealing of documents in the case. “There is a strong presumption that court filings are public,” Rahmani said. “It’s not proper for the judge to issue a blanket order gagging the victims’ families and allowing the parties to file everything under seal.”

The trial of Bryan Kohberger, who is accused of the murders, is expected to begin in August and could last up to 15 weeks. The defendant could face the death penalty if convicted. The court’s decision to limit the sealing of documents will ensure greater transparency in the proceedings and allow for public access to key information in the case.