Man Convicted of Killing Georgia Nursing Student Seeks New Trial

Jose Ibarra argues his constitutional rights were violated in the 2024 murder case of Laken Riley.

Jan. 30, 2026 at 5:47am

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Jose Ibarra, a Venezuelan man convicted of murdering Georgia nursing student Laken Riley in 2024, is seeking a new trial. Ibarra's lawyers argue his constitutional rights were violated by the judge's denial of a request to delay the trial so the defense could have an expert review key evidence, as well as the admission of cellphone evidence the defense sought to exclude. Ibarra was convicted of murder and other crimes in Riley's death and sentenced to life in prison. The judge who heard Ibarra's case will hear arguments on his request for a new trial.

Why it matters

The case of Laken Riley's murder heightened tensions in the national debate over immigration, as Ibarra had entered the U.S. illegally in 2022 and was allowed to stay while pursuing his immigration case. Riley's killing led to the passage of the Laken Riley Act, which requires the detention of people in the country without authorization who are accused of theft and violent crimes.

The details

Ibarra was convicted in November 2024 of murdering Riley, a 22-year-old nursing student, in February of that year while she was running on the University of Georgia campus in Athens. Prosecutors said Ibarra encountered Riley and killed her during a struggle. Ibarra's lawyers argue his constitutional rights were violated by the judge's denial of a request to delay the trial so the defense could have an expert review key evidence, as well as the admission of cellphone evidence the defense sought to exclude.

  • Laken Riley was killed on February 22, 2024.
  • Ibarra was convicted in November 2024.
  • Ibarra's lawyers filed a motion for a new trial within weeks of his conviction.
  • New lawyers have since taken over Ibarra's case and filed an amended motion for a new trial earlier this month.
  • The hearing on Ibarra's request for a new trial will be held on Friday.

The players

Jose Ibarra

A 28-year-old Venezuelan man who was convicted of murdering Laken Riley in 2024. He entered the U.S. illegally in 2022 and was allowed to stay while pursuing his immigration case.

Laken Riley

A 22-year-old nursing student at Augusta University College of Nursing who was killed while running on the University of Georgia campus in Athens in 2024.

H. Patrick Haggard

The Clarke County Superior Court judge who heard and decided Ibarra's case after he waived his right to a jury trial.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.