The family of Kaylee Goncalves, one of the four University of Idaho students fatally stabbed in November 2022, has expressed outrage over a plea deal offered to the accused, Bryan Kohberger. The deal would see Kohberger plead guilty to the murders in exchange for avoiding the death penalty, receiving life sentences without parole instead.

The Goncalves family, who were not consulted about the plea, described the decision as "shocking and cruel" and criticized the lack of input from victims' families. Kaylee's father, Steve Goncalves, stated, "This is anything but justice," and expressed frustration over the secretive nature of the deal.

The plea agreement, confirmed by the Goncalves family attorney, comes after a long legal process marked by delays. Kohberger, a former PhD student in criminology, was arrested in January 2023, and his trial was set to begin in August. The plea deal would require Kohberger to waive his right to appeal, and a hearing is scheduled for Wednesday (July 3) to determine if the judge will accept the agreement.

If accepted, Kohberger will receive four consecutive life sentences, ensuring he spends the rest of his life in prison.

While the Goncalves family opposes the deal, other victims' families, like Madison Mogen's, have chosen to accept it. Mogen's father expressed relief, noting that the plea allows them to avoid a trial and focus on healing.