As the trial of Laken Riley’s killer Jose Ibarra wrapped up, the slain Georgia nursing student’s friends and family members shared powerful memories of her.
Ibarra was convicted of murder, kidnapping, assault with attempt to rape and hindering a 911 call, among 10 offenses, in an Athens County, Ga., court on Wednesday, Nov. 20.
Following remarks by her mother, who called Ibarra a “sick, twisted evil coward,” Riley’s stepfather shared a statement about Riley.
“[Her life] was abundantly and exceptionally full of promise,” John Phillips said, at times choking up during his testimony, which was livestreamed on Court TV.
He then offered the court a glimpse into the hopes and dreams Riley had for her future.
In her last ever journal entry, written on Dec. 17, 2023, she wrote a note to her hypothetical “future husband,” starting off by admitting that she felt “silly” writing it, but expressing her wishes for him.
“I want you to know that I’m thinking about you, I’m working everyday to become the best wife I could be,” Phillips read.
She wrote about “working through” her relationships to prepare for her future husband and children, according to Phillips’ testimony.
She dreamed of raising her future children as Christians in accordance with her own religious beliefs, Phillips said.
“I thank Him for you, before I even know you,” Riley reportedly wrote.
Laken Riley/Facebook
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Phillips’ remarks were one of several victim impact statements shared by Riley’s family and friends in court on Wednesday, shortly before a judge sentenced Ibarra to two life sentences and 49 years — all to be served consecutively.
LIVE: GA v. Jose Ibarra, Murder of Laken Riley Trial – Day 4
Riley, a nursing student at Augusta University, was killed on Feb. 22 while out on a jog on the University of Georgia campus in Athens. She died from blunt force trauma, a coroner previously confirmed to PEOPLE.
