Judge Denies Defense Motions in Laken Riley Murder Case

The trial of Jose Ibarra, accused of murdering Georgia student Laken Riley, will proceed as scheduled despite defense challenges to evidence.

Jose Ibarra, a Venezuelan migrant, is charged with the murder of nursing student Laken Riley during a morning run in February on the University of Georgia campus.
Defense attorneys unsuccessfully sought to delay the trial and suppress DNA, fingerprint, and cellphone evidence, arguing it was unlawfully obtained.
Judge Patrick Haggard ruled that the trial will begin on November 18, allowing the defense to present expert testimony on the evidence's reliability.
Ibarra has pleaded not guilty to multiple charges, including malice murder, kidnapping, and aggravated assault with intent to rape.
The case has sparked national debate over immigration policies, as Ibarra entered the U.S. illegally and was released due to lack of detention space.