His trial, overseen by Judge H. Patrick Haggard, concluded with Ibarra being found guilty on all 10 counts he faced, an outcome determined by the judge himself in a bench trial.

Ibarra, an undocumented immigrant from Venezuela, has been a focal point in discussions surrounding crime and illegal immigration at the national level. He was convicted not only of Laken Riley's murder but also of kidnapping, aggravated assault with intent to rape, and several other serious charges. As the sentences were read, Ibarra mostly kept his gaze lowered.

Judge Haggard imposed the maximum punishments for each charge, ordering that the sentences be served consecutively. This totals to two life sentences plus an additional 27 years in prison for Ibarra. Riley's family and friends, present in the courtroom, displayed evident relief as the sentence was handed down.

Carrie Howell, a close friend of Riley's mother and stepfather, provided a poignant account of the impact of Riley's death. Reflecting on the day Riley went missing, Howell shared her initial fears and the intense prayers she offered, hoping for Riley's safe return. Howell's emotional testimony highlighted the nightmarish ordeal that culminated when she learned Riley had been murdered.

Prosecutor Sheila Ross strongly advocated for the harshest penalties, arguing that such a sentence was necessary not just for justice but also to ensure peace of mind for Riley’s younger sister, Lauren Phillips. Ross emphasized that Phillips should not have to live in fear of Ibarra potentially being paroled decades later.

As the proceedings concluded, Judge Haggard expressed his best wishes to everyone involved. The courtroom remained solemn as Ibarra was led away, marking the end of a case that has had far-reaching emotional and social implications.