Idaho court boosts budget for Kohberger trial next year

The trial of Bryan Kohberger, accused of the 2022 murders of four students in Idaho, is set to begin in over nine months, yet the location remains undecided. Latah County District Court has significantly increased its budget for the trial to $150,000 for fiscal year 2025, a stark rise from the previous year's $3,500 allocation. This budget adjustment reflects the anticipated high costs associated with the trial, including travel and lodging for jurors and witnesses, as well as additional labor for jury management. Prosecutors previously requested a budget of $135,000 in 2023, indicating that the financial implications of the case have been a concern for some time. Kohberger, who has entered a not guilty plea, faces the possibility of the death penalty if convicted. The trial's location is contentious, with defense attorneys arguing for a move to Ada County, citing the emotional connection of the local community to the case as a potential bias. Conversely, prosecutors argue that moving the trial would incur significant costs and that the focus should be on ensuring a fair jury can be selected in Latah County. They contend that the community's exposure to the case through media does not differ significantly from that of Ada County residents. A hearing to determine the trial's venue is scheduled, highlighting the ongoing legal complexities surrounding the case. As preparations continue, the financial burden on local taxpayers is becoming increasingly evident, raising questions about the long-term implications of high-profile criminal trials on community resources.