A judge sentenced Brian Kohberger to life in prison without the possibility of parole on Wednesday after he confessed to killing four students from the University of Idaho at a residence off-campus.

Kohberger, who is 30 and a graduate student, received the sentence for the murders of Kaylee Goncalves, Madison Mogen, Ethan Chapin, and Xana Kernodle in 2022.

Judge Stephen Hippler remarked, “We will give him an agency and give him power,” which seemed to emphasize a focus on the convicted individual.

During the hearing, family and friends of the victims spoke directly to Kohberger, delivering emotional statements that resonated in the courtroom. There were moments of applause in support of the families as they expressed the profound impact of Kohberger’s actions, according to reports.

Alivea Goncalves, Kaylee’s sister, confronted Kohberger, saying, “Do you want the truth? This is what you hate most. If you hadn’t attacked them while they were sleeping, then in the middle of the night, like a coward, Kaylee would have kicked your ass!” This provoked applause in the court.

“The truth is, you’re fundamental,” another victim spoke directly to Kohberger.

Kristi Goncalves, Kaylee’s mother, indicated that Kohberger’s fellow inmates would be waiting for him, stating, “You might have gotten away with it in school, but in prison, you’ll face real consequences.”

Kaylee’s father, Steve Goncalves, took the opportunity to look directly at Kohberger, declaring, “Today we’re here to finish what you started.” He added that police were able to match his DNA quickly, further criticizing Kohberger for his carelessness.

Madison Mogen’s father, Ben Mogen, expressed his grief, sharing, “Maddie was my only child. She was the most wonderful thing I ever had.”

Kohberger entered a guilty plea in early July, which may have helped him avoid the death penalty.

He acknowledged using a knife to murder all four victims and then fleeing the scene. However, the motive behind his actions remains unclear.