AUTISM INNOCENCE PROJECT

Dear Autism Innocence Project Team,

I am reaching out regarding the case of State of Idaho v. Bryan Kohberger. There is growing concern that Mr. Kohberger, who has reported traits consistent with Autism Spectrum Disorder, has not been adequately understood or accommodated within the criminal legal process.

I believe his case raises serious issues that fall directly within the Autism Innocence Project’s mission:

1. Misinterpretation of Autistic Traits
    
   • Behaviors such as flat affect, social withdrawal, or unusual academic focus can be misread by juries, prosecutors, and even courts as indicators of guilt rather than characteristics of autism.
      

1. Due Process & Accommodations
    
   • There is concern that the proceedings have not accounted for potential ASD-related needs (e.g., communication processing, sensory impacts, decision-making vulnerabilities).
      

1. Evidentiary Issues
    
   • Certain forensic evidence (e.g., complex DNA mixtures, exclusions of genetic genealogy explanations) remains contested. Without full and fair exploration, misunderstandings may disproportionately harm an autistic defendant.
      

1. Systemic Implications
    
   • This case highlights broader dangers of mischaracterizing autistic individuals in high-profile criminal prosecutions. As in the Robert Roberson case, there is a risk that atypical behaviors are used as evidence of guilt rather than being properly contextualized.
      

Given AIP’s mission of reforming how the justice system handles autistic individuals, I respectfully urge your team to review Mr. Kohberger’s situation and consider whether advocacy, amicus support, or broader educational outreach could prevent a miscarriage of justice.

I would be grateful for guidance on how best to engage with your organization to support this work, whether through direct assistance, research, or public awareness efforts.

Thank you for your critical efforts to ensure equity and fairness for autistic individuals in the criminal justice system.

Sincerely,

[Your Full Name]
[Your Contact Information]