Keith Jesperson, the ‘Happy Face Killer’ who killed eight women in the 1990s, has suggested that Bryan Kohberger, the Idaho campus murderer, should be transferred to Oregon’s maximum-security prison to address security concerns. Jesperson claims that Kohberger’s social awkwardness and high-profile case make him a potential target for other inmates, suggesting that Oregon’s prison system offers better protection. The Idaho Department of Corrections has not commented on the proposal, but the state’s officials prioritize safety and security in housing decisions.
Jesperson, who has a history of writing letters to other high-profile killers, has shared his opinion with Fox News Digital through a former prison minister and podcaster named Keith Rovere. He argues that Oregon’s prison system is better equipped to handle individuals like Kohberger, who he believes lacks both street smarts and prison smarts. Jesperson’s comments come after Kohberger’s plea deal, which resulted in a life sentence without parole for his crimes. The Idaho students’ killer is expected to spend at least a few weeks in isolation before details of his long-term housing at the Idaho Maximum Security Institution in Kuna are finalized.
Officially, the Idaho Department of Corrections has stated that safety and security are a priority in all aspects of housing decisions. While a transfer is theoretically possible, it would require a formal request and approval, and there is currently no indication that such a move is being considered. Jesperson’s suggestion, however, highlights the ongoing concerns about the security risks associated with housing high-profile inmates in their home states.
Additionally, Jesperson’s claim about Ohio and Oregon’s prison system being able to safely house killers from other states is backed by a precedent. Oregon is part of a group of western states that have an agreement to house prisoners across state lines when there are concerns about safety, special housing needs, or overcrowding. Idaho, however, is not part of this pact, meaning that any transfer would require special consideration and approval.
Kohberger’s case has drawn significant public attention due to the brutal nature of the killings and the lack of a clear motive. His social awkwardness and lack of remorse have further fueled public speculation and concern. The defense team for Kohberger has also highlighted his potential vulnerability in a prison setting, citing his diagnosis of autism and his difficulty communicating with others in a traditional manner.
Given the high-profile nature of Kohberger’s case and the potential for security risks, the suggestion to transfer him to Oregon’s prison system has sparked a broader debate about the safety and management of high-profile inmate populations in the United States. While no official decision has been made, Jesperson’s comments have added to the ongoing discussion about the challenges of housing such individuals and the potential risks they may pose in prison environments.