A judge in Athens has cleared the way for a hearing that could remove DNA evidence from the case against Jose Ibarra, accused of murdering a nursing student on the University of Georgia’s campus.
⚖️ What’s happening: Ibarra’s legal team filed a motion to exclude DNA evidence from TruAllele Casework Software, arguing that they have not received all underlying data necessary for an independent analysis. Two key hearings are set for October 11 and November 1, where the defense and prosecution will address the motion to exclude the DNA evidence.
- The defense claims the absence of this data prevents an accurate evaluation of the forensic methods.
- Prosecutors say DNA evidence, including a thumbprint on the victim’s phone and DNA from her fingernails, as central to their case.
🕵️ Catch up quick: Ibarra, 26, is charged with the murder of Laken Riley, a 22-year-old nursing student, who was found dead on February 22 near Lake Herrick on UGA’s campus. Authorities say Riley went for a morning run and was reported missing by a friend when she failed to return. Her body was discovered with visible injuries.
- Riley’s last outgoing call, allegedly disconnected by Ibarra, was a 911 call made on her cellphone.