Jose Ibarra Seeks Venue Change in Murder Trial

Jose Ibarra, charged with the murder of nursing student Laken Hope Riley, has had his defense attorneys file a request for a change of venue from Athens-Clarke County, citing concerns over the ability to find an impartial jury due to extensive local media scrutiny and the case's prominence at the University of Georgia. The request, based on a 2013 Georgia court decision, argues that the media coverage has been 'unduly extensive, factually incorrect, inflammatory, or reflective of an atmosphere of hostility.' Ibarra, a Venezuelan national, faces multiple charges including murder and kidnapping, with jury selection set to begin on November 13. The case has sparked a national debate on immigration, with political figures attributing Riley’s death to current border policies. A response to the venue change request is expected from the prosecution within ten days. Ibarra has pleaded not guilty to all charges.