Key Takeaways:

• Bryan Kohberger's defense argues against the use of DNA evidence derived from Investigative Genetic Genealogy (IGG).
• They claim that the search warrants used in the investigation were compromised due to police misconduct.
• The outcome of a two-day hearing could significantly impact the prosecution's case ahead of the scheduled trial.

In a landmark hearing starting Thursday, according to the AP, defense attorneys for Bryan Kohberger, charged with four counts of first-degree murder in the 2022 killings of University of Idaho students, are requesting that substantial evidence be dismissed due to purported violations of constitutional rights during the investigation. Kohberger, who is also facing a felony burglary charge, formally entered a not-guilty plea after opting to remain silent last year. The trial is set to commence on August 11, 2023.

His defense team alleges that the law enforcement’s reliance on a technique known as Investigative Genetic Genealogy (IGG) was constitutionally flawed, a sentiment echoed in motions filed recently. They argue that, "There would be no investigation into him without that original constitutional violation," asserting that without the IGG process, crucial evidence such as the collection of DNA from his trash and surveillance of his parents would not have occurred. The IGG technique often comes into play when traditional DNA databases fail to yield results; investigators upload genetic samples to public ancestry sites to identify potential relatives and, consequently, suspects.

During the proceedings, the defense aims to eliminate evidence garnered from search warrants, asserting that officers either recklessly or deliberately misled the courts when they sought those warrants for Kohberger's DNA, cell phone records, and property searches. These allegations highlight an ongoing concern about police conduct throughout the investigation. The prosecution, however, disputes the defense's claims, maintaining that IGG is a valid investigative tool that adheres to legal standards.

While portions of the hearing will be closed to the public, the open segments will be available for livestreaming, allowing the public some insight into the proceedings amid the intense media scrutiny on the case. This level of transparency is challenged, however, by judge Steven Hippler's decision to keep case details under wraps, citing the need to protect the potential jury pool.

In related commentary, the families of the victims have expressed their desire for justice, particularly regarding the death penalty for Kohberger should he be convicted. "If he did anything like he did to our daughter to the others, then he deserves to die," remarked Kristi Goncalves, mother to victim Kaylee Goncalves.

As the situation evolves, many await the upcoming court rulings which could alter this high-profile case's trajectory, underscoring the balancing act between judicial integrity and public accountability. Coverage of this ongoing situation can also be found on Newsweek and CBS News.