Bryan Kohberger, a 30-year-old former criminology student, has been sentenced to multiple life terms without parole for the murders of four University of Idaho students: Madison Mogen, 21; Kaylee Goncalves, 21; Xana Kernodle, 20; and Ethan Chapin, 20. The case has drawn national attention and has led to an outpouring of emotions from the victims’ families, who addressed Kohberger during the sentencing hearing.
Kohberger was already in custody at the state prison in Kuna, Idaho, by Wednesday afternoon, though details of his transfer to maximum security have not been officially disclosed. The Idaho Department of Corrections has stated that once in custody, Kohberger will undergo a 7-14 day Reception and Diagnostic Unit (RDU) process to evaluate his needs and determine appropriate housing placement. This evaluation will include a psychological assessment to determine whether he poses a threat to himself, other inmates, or prison staff.
According to the RDU process, Kohberger is likely to be placed in solitary confinement, at least initially, due to his notoriety as a convicted murderer. However, inmates are typically not kept in solitary indefinitely, and he may eventually be transferred to general population. Paul Mauro, a retired NYPD inspector and Fox News contributor, noted that in general population, Kohberger is vulnerable and may be targeted by other inmates due to his reputation.
Kohberger’s sentence, which includes