The world of crime has a new playground, and it seems to be our beloved social media. In a recent episode of the podcast "Hidden Killers," hosted by Tony Brueski with former FBI Special Agent and show regular Jennifer Coffindaffer, the possibility of social media's role in a high-profile criminal case was broached. Bryan Kohberger's actions, particularly on Instagram, have raised eyebrows and questions regarding his potential involvement in stalking several girls.
Kohberger's name might ring a bell for those who have been following crime stories in recent years. The case has become one of the most debated on various platforms, with Mr. and Mrs. Gonsalves notably vocal about their views, given the heart-wrenching loss of their daughter. Recently, Mrs. Gonsalves made an unsettling revelation, stating that they had found Kohberger allegedly following some of the girls on Instagram.
"The Instagram accounts have since gone offline," Brueski notes, suggesting that the links vanished shortly after the beginning of the year. Coffindaffer weighed in with her insight, "Very early on, many, including myself, were trolling Instagram to find any social media connection. We found that connection but hesitated to claim it outright due to potential misinformation."
False leads and fabricated information are, unfortunately, commonplace in many high-profile cases. Coffindaffer points to similar scenarios in the Idaho case and Gabby Petito's case. "There is so much that you can find, and then it ends up being contrived."
However, what stood out in the conversation was the unwavering conviction of the Gonsalves. As Coffindaffer asserts, the Gonsalves have "absolutely no reason to lie." Their intent is clear – to ensure the truth emerges and justice prevails. They, along with countless others, believe Kohberger is responsible for the heinous act that befell their child.
Yet, a concerning undercurrent exists, where certain groups on social media vocally support Kohberger's innocence. "There's a pro-Kohberger alliance," Coffindaffer states, emphasizing the influence and reach these groups have on platforms like hers.
The podcast episode didn’t only focus on the digital aspects. There was an equally compelling debate on the treatment Kohberger has received during his trials. While comparing Kohberger's legal proceedings with those of Richard Allen, another criminal with a notorious reputation, Brueski and Coffindaffer observed a glaring disparity. Richard Allen appeared in court shackled, wearing a jumpsuit and surrounded by officers, while Kohberger seemingly received preferential treatment, showing up in suits and looking groomed.
"It seems like it really shows the vast differences we can have from jurisdiction to jurisdiction," Brueski said, pinpointing the inconsistency in how suspects are treated.
Coffindaffer echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the need for equity in these situations, "It should be fair across the board. Innocent until proven guilty."
Another enigmatic element of the conversation revolved around "Papa Roger," a mysterious online entity believed by some to be Kohberger. While earlier investigations seemed to tie Papa Roger to Kohberger due to the details shared, Coffindaffer has her reservations, mainly due to differences in writing styles between the two accounts.
In the ever-evolving world of social media and its implications in real-world scenarios, the Kohberger case serves as a cautionary tale. As audiences grapple with the revelations from the "Hidden Killers" podcast, one can't help but wonder: How much more are we unaware of in the digital footprints of criminals?
Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj
Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
The latest on Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com