Newly released Idaho State Police documents reveal that killer Bryan Kohberger once voiced support for capital punishment during a classroom discussion, telling fellow students that “the victim’s family should have a say” in whether the death penalty is imposed.

The comment was disclosed in a police interview with one of Kohberger’s Washington State University classmates, included among more than 500 pages of investigative records released Monday. 

“[Redacted student] stated that there was a discussion in class about victimization of students on college campuses, specifically in regards to stalking. Kohberger forced himself into the discussion and reported he was in support of the death penalty and made statements that the victim’s family should have a say as to whether or not the death penalty is imposed,” according to the interview.

The document trove spans the early stages of the probe — when detectives had few leads — through Kohberger’s arrest and the eventual discovery of DNA evidence tying him to the crime scene. Despite his remarks, Kohberger ultimately accepted a plea deal in the Idaho student murders, avoiding the death penalty and taking four consecutive life sentences plus additional years, a move that split the victims’ families between those who welcome closure to those who say justice was thwarted.

Madison Mogen, top left, smiles on the shoulders of her best friend, Kaylee Goncalves, as they pose with Ethan Chapin, Xana Kernodle, and two other housemates in Goncalves’ final Instagram post, shared the day before the four students were stabbed to death. (@kayleegoncalves/Instagram)

Chapin’s parents, Jim and Stacy, told The Today Show they felt immediate relief. 

“If I could physically do a handstand, I’d probably do one, because I am so ready,” Jim Chapin told the outlet. “I’m ready for my kids to move on. I’m ready for us to move on. I mean, it’s been almost 2½ years, and it’s, just, it’s over.”

Similarly, the Mogen family, speaking through their attorney, said that they supported the plea “100 percent.”

“We support the plea agreement 100 percent,” their attorney said. “We ask that others respect our belief that this is the best outcome possible.”