Accused killer of Aniah Blanchard to appear before retired Justice Tom F. Young

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June 24, 2025

(Escambia County Jail/Contributed, Blanchard Family/Contributed)

Ibraheem Yazeed, who is accused of kidnapping and murdering Aniah Blanchard of Homewood approximately six years ago, is scheduled to appear today for a status hearing before retired Justice Tom F. Young.

Justice Young took over the case due to the requirements of the Speedy Trial Act, which was recently enacted to ensure victims receive timely justice. The legislation also helps reduce the current backlog of violent criminal cases across Alabama.

Yazeed has been charged with committing the crime against Blanchard in 2019 while he was out on bond for numerous other violent offenses. His alleged actions while out on bond led the Alabama Legislature to pass Aniah’s Law, allowing courts to deny an individual’s bond if they have been accused of multiple violent felonies.

Yazeed’s attorneys have filed a motion requesting that the judge prohibit those involved in the trial—including witnesses, court personnel, and law enforcement—from releasing information to the news media during the proceedings.

Sherri Blevins is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at sherri@yellowhammernews.com.

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