University of Idaho pledges ‘extra support and security’ even after murder suspect’s arrest

MOSCOW, Idaho – Students returning to the University of Idaho for the spring semester will still see increased security and will have access to counseling when they return for classes in early January.

U of I had these measures in place after the murder of four students in mid-November.

Now that a suspect has been arrested, the university said it will remain committed to the security and safety of students.

“Classes in self-defense, vigilance, stalking awareness, healthy relationships and more, as well as the distribution of personal safety devices, will continue as planned,” U of I President Scott Green said in an email Friday. “Additional security personnel have been added to the university’s security team and local law enforcement will increase patrols on campus and in nearby neighborhoods.”

Green thanked law enforcement and Governor Brad Little’s office for support throughout the case so far.

He said U of I has no record of any kind of suspect Bryan Kohberger, who was arrested at his parents’ home in Pennsylvania Friday morning.

Kohberger was a PhD student at nearby Washington State University, studying criminal justice.

RELATED STORY: What we know about Bryan Kohberger

His arrest brought a sense of relief to the Moscow community.

“This is the news we have been waiting for and a relief for our community and most importantly, the families of Kaylee Goncalves, Madison Mogen, Xana Kernodle and Ethan Chapin,” Green said. “We are grateful for the hard work of law enforcement to protect our community and bring justice.”

After the murders, hundreds of U of I students chose to move home for the remainder of the semester. Many were planning to take classes remotely as the killer was still on the loose until this week.

“While we cannot bring back Maddie, Kaylee, Xana and Ethan, we can thoughtfully and purposefully carry their legacy forward in the work we do,” said Green. “The next few months will be tough on their friends and families as the legal system begins the process of publicly prosecuting these crimes to bring justice. Let’s keep them in our thoughts and prayers and continue to stand #vandalstrong.”

PAST COVERAGE: Victims’ parents share memories at vigil for Idaho students 

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