Former NYPD inspector Paul Mauro joined Trey Gowdy on "Sunday Night in America" to analyze the prosecution's decision to seek the death penalty against Bryan Kohberger in the University of Idaho student murders. Gowdy questioned the impact of this decision on the prosecution's ability to secure a conviction. Kohberger is accused of killing Madison Mogen, Kaylee Goncalves, Xana Kernodle, and Ethan Chapin on November 13, 2022.
Mauro highlighted the gravity of the crime, noting it meets the criteria for a capital case in Idaho. He explained the death penalty decision would be a separate proceeding handled by the jury. Given the horrific nature of the alleged crimes, Mauro believes jurors might be inclined towards capital punishment.
The defense has argued that the presence of other DNA at the crime scene suggests a lack of connection between Kohberger and the victims. Mauro characterized this defense tactic as a likely "fishing expedition," suggesting they are searching for any avenue to shift the narrative away from their client. He pointed to the defense's explicit denial of this being a "fishing expedition" as a strong indicator that it is precisely that. Mauro referenced reports indicating that the DNA found on a knife sheath at the scene matches Kohberger's with astronomical odds, surpassing the number of grains of sand on Earth. He suggested the defense is seeking ways to create distractions, potentially by focusing on police procedure or unidentified DNA.
The trial is set to commence on October 2, 2023.
