Courtesy: TPD

Galareka Harrison

Galareka Harrison, 19, showed no emotion as the verdict was read in Pima County Superior Court Friday afternoon. She was also found guilty of charges of forgery and identity theft.

The prosecution presented evidence showing that Harrison planned the murder of Mia Henderson, 18, on September 5, 2007.

Mia Henderson

Both the suspect and victim were students at the University from the Navajo Nation.

Over a week of testimony, the prosecution presented 13 witnesses. The defense opted not to present any witnesses.

In closing arguments, the defense said the stabbing was in self defense.

Fox 11 News Reporter Deanna Morgan said Harrison was stoic as the verdict was read. During the discussion about sentencing, Morgan says Harrison smile a few times. "She actually seemed relieved it was all over, even though she was found guilty," Morgan reported.

Family members of both Harrison and Henderson refused comment to reporters following the verdict.

Superior Court Judge Nanette Warner will sentence Harrison to either life in prison with the possibility of parole after 25 years, or life without the possibility of parole.

Henderson was stabbed 23 times, mostly in the back, according the testimony of the Pima County Medical Examiner's office. One of the wounds was over 7 inches deep.

They presented proof that Harrison purchased the knife, forged a suicide note on which she signed Henderson's name. Testimony also revealed that Harrison had forged a $500 check from Henderson. In addition, the prosecution presented evidence that Harrison had stolen another student's identification in order to cash the check.

Henderson's family has filed a lawsuit against the University of Arizona and other parties claiming the school should have known there was a history of conflict between the two and they should not have been placed in the same residence hall room.