Lang
6/29/25
A former University of Iowa student who allegedly robbed and tried to strangle a woman on campus, then fled the country to avoid prosecution, has waived his right to a jury trial.
During a Friday court hearing, 22-year-old Ali Younes opted for a judge to decide his fate.
Younes is accused of attacking a woman on the Iowa Memorial Union footbridge on April 25th, 2022. He allegedly strangled the woman into unconsciousness before taking her earrings, which were valued at $20,000.
Witnesses interrupted Younes, who claimed that the victim was walking and then passed out. He fled and was arrested at his girlfriend’s house the next day while in possession of the stolen earrings.
While awaiting trial in May of 2023, Younes allegedly cut off his ankle monitor and fled to Jordan. He voluntarily returned to the U.S. after UI Police and the U.S. Embassy in Jordan negotiated a voluntary surrender in August 2024. His parents have since been convicted for helping in his escape.
Younes faces up to sixty years in prison if convicted on Attempted Murder, 1st Degree Robbery and 1st Degree Theft charges. Trial is set for July 8th.