Bryan Kohberger had no words for his mother, Maryann, or his sister, Amanda, as he walked out of court on Wednesday, July 23, after receiving a sentence of life behind bars.
The 30-year-old was sentenced to four consecutive life terms without the possibility of parole for the brutal murders of four University of Idaho students nearly three years ago. Despite the gravity of the moment and the presence of two close family members, Kohberger reportedly ignored both women as he was led out of the courtroom.
According to The New York Times, Maryann and Amanda were the only members of Kohberger’s family in attendance. Maryann was visibly shaken throughout the proceedings — seen at times shuddering and at one point placing her head in her hands.
Defense attorney Anne Taylor was later seen escorting both women out of the Ada County Courthouse following the sentencing.
During the emotional hearing, one of the victims’ relatives, Kim Cheeley — grandmother of Madison Mogen — made a point to acknowledge the pain felt by all families affected, including the Kohbergers.
“My heart aches for the kids’ roommates, and the families of the other victims — and also the family of the perpetrator,” she said.
Shortly after Cheeley’s statement and a brief recess, Kohberger did reportedly offer a brief smile and nod in his mother’s direction, but that appeared to be his only gesture of acknowledgment.
Kohberger’s sentence includes four life terms for the murders, 10 additional years for a burglary charge, and over $270,000 in fines and restitution. The sentencing comes three weeks after Kohberger pleaded guilty to the killings of Madison Mogen, 21; Kaylee Goncalves, 21; Xana Kernodle, 20; and Ethan Chapin, 20.
Amanda Kohberger appeared eager to exit the courthouse quickly, leading her mother away while seemingly trying to shield her from the press. Maryann wore dark, oversized sunglasses as the two made their way to a waiting vehicle.
It’s unclear whether the women will be able to visit Kohberger again before he’s transferred from the Ada County Jail into the custody of the Idaho Department of Corrections. He is scheduled to undergo a two-week evaluation to determine his final prison placement, which will likely be Idaho’s maximum security facility — though an out-of-state location is also possible due to safety concerns tied to his high-profile status.
