Opening statements are set to begin in the trial of a man accused of killing a Georgia nursing student, a case that stirred the immigration debate during the recent election cycle. The defendant, charged with murder and other crimes, waived his right to a jury trial, leaving the decision to be made by a judge.
The prosecution aims to demonstrate that the defendant struck the 22-year-old nursing student in the head, asphyxiated her, and had intentions of sexually assaulting her. While the death penalty is not being pursued, prosecutors are seeking a sentence of life in prison without parole.
