But such was the malice of his adversaries, that though Barabbas was one that had committed murder in an insurrection, yet they choose him rather than Christ. See Poole on "Matthew 27:15", and following verses to Matthew 27:18.
Related Commentaries of John 18:40
John 18:40
40 Then cried they all again, saying, Not this man, but Barabbas. Now Barabbas was a robber.