The man accused of murdering nursing student Laken Riley has waived his right to a trial by jury and is instead requesting a bench trial before a judge.
Jose Ibarra appeared before Athens-Clarke County Superior Court Judge H. Patrick Haggard on Tuesday. The judge questioned Ibarra regarding his decision, who answered through a translator.
“Do you have any questions about your decision to weigh jury trial?” “No questions.”
Judge Haggard also made sure Ibarra understood that he can’t change his decision.
“Do you understand that if I grant this request, it cannot be revoked by you going forward?” “Yes, your honor.”
Prosecutors and defense attorneys argued about evidence to be admitted at trial. Last week, Judge Haggard ruled against the defense motions to suppress DNA evidence. He also ruled against a motion for a continuance in the matter, after the defense argued for more time to find a DNA expert. Prosecutors countered that they had some results in May and full raw results in October.
Ibarra is charged with one count of malice murder, three counts of felony murder, and one count each of kidnapping, aggravated assault, aggravated battery, hindering, tampering with evidence, and peeping Tom.
Prosecutors said they are seeking a sentence of life in prison without parole for Ibarra.
The trial is set to begin at 9 am on Friday. Prosecutors are seeking a sentence of life without parole.
This article comes to Now Habersham in partnership with WUGA News
