Convicted killer Bessman Okafor to soon learn fate in 2012 murder
ORLANDO, Fla. - A convicted killer is set to learn his sentence in June following a final hearing before the sentencing that was held on Monday.
Bessman Okafor was convicted in 2012 for the murder of 19-year-old Alex Zaldivar. In January, a jury recommended the death penalty by a 9-3 vote during a resentencing trial, but the ultimate decision rests with the judge.
Rafael Zaldivar, the victim's father, who has been actively involved in the case for years, expressed readiness for any outcome.
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"I've been coming out here, I've been to maybe more than 200 hearings, seven trials," Rafael Zaldivar said. "You know if I have to go through it again, then so be it."
Okafor opted not to speak during the hearing. The judge is expected to announce the decision on June 24.