The parents of Ethan Chapin, one of the four University of Idaho students murdered in November 2022, have expressed their feelings regarding the recent plea deal made by Bryan Kohberger. In an interview with NBC News, aired on July 14, 2023, Stacy and Jim Chapin stated that they are indifferent to the future consequences Kohberger may face following his guilty plea, which spared him from a potential death penalty.
Kohberger, 30, pleaded guilty on July 2, 2023, to four counts of first-degree murder and burglary related to the stabbings of Ethan Chapin, his girlfriend Xana Kernodle, and her housemates, Madison Mogen and Kaylee Goncalves. The agreement allows him to avoid a trial that was scheduled to begin in August, thus eliminating the risk of a death sentence.
During the interview with NBC News correspondent Liz Kreutz, Stacy Chapin acknowledged the differing sentiments among the families of the victims regarding Kohberger’s plea deal. “Everybody’s entitled to grieve and feel how they want,” she noted, adding that their perspective does not align with those who believe the deal diminishes justice. Jim Chapin reiterated his stance, stating, “I really don’t care what happens to the guy. He’s off the streets. He can’t hurt any more kids.”
Chapin Family’s Perspective on Justice
The Chapins articulated their thoughts on the plea deal as a resolution that allows them to move forward. “I think our initial response was like, an eye for an eye,” Stacy Chapin explained. However, after discussions with prosecutors, the family concluded that the plea deal was the most practical outcome. “He gets put away, and there’s no appeal system to it,” she added. The family emphasized that this resolution alleviates the burden of uncertainty from other potential witnesses, allowing them to live their lives without ongoing fear of legal proceedings.
The upcoming sentencing date is set for July 23, 2023, where victim impact statements will be presented by the families. Kohberger is expected to face a life sentence in prison. The reaction to his plea deal has varied widely among the victims’ families. Steven Goncalves, father of Kaylee, criticized the agreement, stating, “Idaho has failed.” He expressed frustration over the lack of communication regarding what justice means to the families impacted by the tragedy.
In contrast, the family of Madison Mogen expressed their full support for the plea deal, calling it “the best outcome possible for the victims, their families, and the state of Idaho.” Cara Northington, mother of Xana Kernodle, voiced her belief that the plea deal brings closure to the case, arguing that a death penalty would only prolong the suffering through appeals.
Media and Community Reactions
Kohberger’s family released a statement asking for privacy and respect during this challenging time. They emphasized their intention to allow the legal process to unfold without further comment. The varying opinions among the families highlight the complexities of grief and justice in the aftermath of such a tragic event.
As the legal proceedings come to a close, the Chapin family remains focused on healing, while acknowledging the diverse emotions felt by those affected by the murders. The outcome of Kohberger’s plea deal not only shapes the future for him but also impacts the lives of families navigating their grief.