Jurors find Jodi Arias eligible for death penalty

Jurors in former Palm Desert resident Jodi Arias’ trial have found the former waitress should be eligible for the death penalty after they convicted her last week of murdering her lover.

The decision came after a day of testimony Wednesday during which prosecutors had to prove the murder was committed in an especially cruel and heinous manner.

The 32-year-old Arias admitted killing Travis Alexander in June 2008 at his suburban Phoenix home. She first denied involvement. Two years after her arrest, she said it was self-defense. Prosecutors said she planned the killing in a jealous rage.

Next up is the final penalty phase as prosecutors call witnesses, including Alexander’s family, as they attempt to convince jurors Arias should face the ultimate punishment. Arias’ attorneys will work to gain sympathy from jurors to spare her life.