Court records or official trial reports detailing the verdict rationale

Jose Ibarra's Bench Trial Begins in Murder of Georgia Nursing Student, 22-Year-Old Laken Riley

Nov 15, 2024, 03:00 PM

Jose Ibarra, a Venezuelan national accused in the murder of 22-year-old University of Georgia nursing student, Laken Riley, has waived his right to a jury trial, opting instead for a bench trial presided over by Judge Patrick Haggard that commenced on November 15, 2024. Prosecutors outlined graphic details in their opening statements, alleging Ibarra attacked Riley during her morning jog on February 22, 2024, near the university campus. During the attack, Riley managed to make a 911 call, which was played in court. Riley's skull was reportedly crushed with a rock, and evidence includes forensic data, digital records, and video footage. If convicted, he faces life imprisonment without the possibility of parole.