In the latest episode of the podcast "Hidden Killers," host Tony Brueski engaged in a deep dive discussion with Shavaun Scott, a psychotherapist and author of "The Minds of Mass Killers," about the ongoing case against Bryan Kohberger, the accused murderer of four Idaho college students in late 2021. The primary focus was the defense's recent claim that the DNA linking Kohberger to the crime scene could have been planted, a strategy Scott deemed a "desperate attempt."
 
According to Scott, the defense's suggestion that DNA evidence could have been manipulated is a daring move aimed at deflecting attention onto police conduct. Despite understanding the defense's motivation to avoid the death penalty for their client, Scott expressed skepticism about the success of such an approach. She noted, "I don't really expect it to go very far."
 
The conversation also addressed the potential impacts of this claim on public perception. Scott agreed that even unfounded assertions like this could sow seeds of doubt in those already predisposed to mistrust law enforcement. However, she emphasized her belief that this strategy will unlikely gain significant traction.
 
Another focus point was Kohberger's termination from his teaching assistant position following altercations with his colleagues. Both Brueski and Scott agreed that this element might add to the public's perception of Kohberger, further reinforcing the image of a man with issues related to authority and his interactions with female colleagues and students.
 
Drawing upon her expertise, Scott commented on the noticeable change in Kohberger's behavior after the crime. Observations from his students about easier grading, a disheveled appearance, and aloofness, combined with details like his phone being off during the crime, were significant to her. She explained, "after the murder, he would have had a mood change... he would have been experiencing a different set of emotions. And we saw that reflected in his behavior after the murders."
 
In the end, Scott opined that the looming threat of the death penalty is probably influencing the defense's strategy, which she described as "let's throw everything at the wall and see what sticks." While it remains uncertain whether the defense is aiming for full exoneration or simply trying to avoid the death sentence, Scott highlighted that no mitigating circumstances like childhood abuse had been presented to explain Kohberger's actions.
 
As this fascinating case unfolds, it offers deeper insights into the minds of the accused and those seeking justice. The full conversation can be found on the "Hidden Killers" podcast.
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