BOISE, ID – A judge has denied Bryan Kohberger’s attempt to block additional restitution payments related to the 2022 killings of four University of Idaho students, ruling that the state is entitled to seek the costs under the terms of his plea agreement.
Ada County Judge Steven Hippler issued the decision Thursday, the three-year anniversary of the murders. His order requires Kohberger to pay funeral-related expenses for two of the victims, Kaylee Goncalves and Madison Mogen.
The court approved $1,420 to Steve and Kristi Goncalves and $1,587.79 to Madison Mogen’s mother, Karen Laramie, for the cost of urns. These expenses were not included when Kohberger entered his plea earlier this year.
Kohberger’s attorneys argued he should not have to pay more than the restitution amount listed in the plea deal and noted he is serving four life sentences, making further payments unrealistic. Hippler rejected the argument, writing that Kohberger had already received enough money through donations in custody to cover the additional costs and could continue to earn funds during his incarceration.
The ruling stems from a broader restitution request filed in Latah County seeking more than $27,000 for family travel and lodging during court proceedings. Kohberger had previously agreed to pay more than $29,000 to reimburse the state Crime Victim Compensation Fund.
Kohberger pleaded guilty to killing Goncalves, Mogen, Xana Kernodle and Ethan Chapin on Nov. 13, 2022, and is serving four consecutive life sentences.
