A man accused of killing a kindergarten teacher in Memphis in 2022 was sentenced to life in prison without parole after pleading guilty to multiple charges, including first-degree murder and aggravated kidnapping.

Cleotha Abston, 40, was expected to go on trial starting February 10 next year but gave up her right to appeal on Monday, according to a report. expression This verdict, released by Shelby County District Attorney Steve Mulroy, brought a complete end to the case that had been going on for more than two years.

“Today’s agreement provides final closure for the family,” Mulroy said in a statement. “This also helps the community because this dangerous person will never walk our streets again. He will die in prison,” he added.

Eliza Fletcher, a mother and kindergarten teacher at St. Mary’s Episcopal School, disappeared during an early morning run on September 2, 2022. When she didn’t return home, her husband called the police.

According to security cameras achieved Fletcher was chased by a man later identified as Abston near the University of Memphis around 4 a.m., according to CNN. He was then forced into the passenger seat of a black SUV.

Details stated in an affidavit noted that the SUV remained parked for four minutes before being driven away.

Abston was arrested the next day after police found the vehicle near his home. According to testimony, he tried to escape but was taken into custody. Three days later, Fletcher’s body was found behind a balcony. empty complex 20 minutes from where he was kidnapped.

DNA obtained from a pair of sandals found near the kidnapping site helped investigators identify and arrest Abston, according to the affidavit.

Mulroy said the case “has deeply shaken the community.” One expression Fletcher’s family, who was released by prosecutors on Monday, addressed Abston directly, saying: “You changed our lives forever and nothing will ever be the same.”

“You killed Liza even though she did nothing to deserve it,” they said. “He didn’t hurt you. In fact, he would be the first person to help if you needed it.”

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