Jose Ibarra to Face Bench Trial for Murder

Jose Ibarra, a 26-year-old Venezuelan illegal immigrant, is set to begin a bench trial for the murder of 22-year-old nursing student Laken Riley at the University of Georgia. Ibarra waived his right to a jury trial, allowing Judge H. Patrick Haggard to determine his fate. He faces multiple charges including malice murder, felony murder, aggravated assault with intent to rape, and more, with prosecutors seeking life in prison without parole. Riley was found dead on February 22 after going for a jog, and authorities believe her death was a 'crime of opportunity' as Ibarra did not know her. The case has sparked political discussions regarding immigration, drawing attention from figures like President-elect Donald Trump. Evidence expected to be presented includes DNA, cellphone data, and items recovered from Ibarra's apartment, alongside testimonies regarding a related peeping Tom incident.