Bryan Kohberger’s mental health records given to prosecutors

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Newly unsealed court documents have revealed that medical and mental health records for Bryan Kohberger, the suspect in a quadruple murder at the University of Idaho, and his family members have been provided to prosecutors. Both the defense and prosecutors had agreed to keep the protective order referencing the records sealed, but Ada County Judge Steven Hippler decided to unseal it last week, citing no compelling reason to keep the public unaware. While the contents of the records remain confidential, the unsealed protective order specifies that the records are not to be shared beyond the prosecution team.

The mental health records were handed over on January 9, almost two months after Hippler ruled that Kohberger, 30, could face the death penalty if convicted. The unsealing of the protective order marks a move towards transparency by the judge, who recently ordered the transcript of a closed-door hearing regarding the defense’s opposition to investigative genetic genealogy evidence to be made public.

Kohberger, a Ph.D. student in criminology at Washington State University at the time of the murders, could potentially face the death penalty in Idaho. However, if the crimes had occurred on the Washington side of the state line, he would not face the death penalty and could potentially invoke an insanity defense. His mental health records could play a significant role in determining his fate, as they may provide mitigating factors that could spare his life.

Experts suggest that Kohberger’s alleged past abuse of heroin could have been an escape mechanism from severe bullying and childhood ostracization. Former classmates have described him as bright but awkward, and he was reportedly bullied growing up. Despite the challenges he faced, he managed to slim down and pursue a career in law enforcement.

Kohberger is accused of killing four University of Idaho students in a home invasion massacre on November 13, 2022. He was arrested at his parents’ house in Pennsylvania and could face the death penalty if convicted. State lawmakers are considering making the firing squad the primary means of execution in his case.

As the legal proceedings continue, the public awaits further developments in the case of Bryan Kohberger and the tragic events that unfolded at the University of Idaho. Stay updated on the latest news and exclusive content by joining Fox News for free access to premium articles and special features.