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Iowa City, IA--A verdict is expected Dec. 5 in the case of Ali Younes, 22, accused of attacking and robbing a 63-year-old woman near the University of Iowa campus in April 2022. According to a report by The Gazette, Younes faces attempted murder, first-degree robbery, and first-degree theft charges after a two-day bench trial in July.

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Prosecutors allege Younes followed the woman, later identified as Hands Jewelers employee Anne Rizzo, tackled her near the UI Art Building West, choked her until she lost consciousness, and stole diamond earrings valued at more than $10,000. Trial testimony placed the value at about $25,000.

The case was delayed after Younes fled to Jordan in May 2023, cutting off an ankle monitor while on pretrial release. The report stated that he used a Jordanian passport to leave the country. His parents were later convicted of aiding his escape. With no extradition agreement between the United States and Jordan, Younes returned voluntarily in August 2024 and was taken into custody. He also faces an escape-from-custody charge.

Rizzo testified about the attack and her injuries. Two University of Iowa students said they saw her unconscious with a man standing over her, who then ran off. Per the report, surveillance footage presented in court showed Younes following Rizzo and leaving the area afterward.

University of Iowa police detective Ian Mallory testified that Younes confessed during an interview. A former girlfriend and a friend also said Younes admitted the assault to them. Younes did not testify. If convicted on all charges, he faces up to 60 years in prison.

Learn more in this report by The Gazette.