Prosecutors Seek Death Penalty for Man Charged with Killing Memphis Teacher Eliza Fletcher
Prosecutors in Memphis, Tennessee, will seek the death penalty against Cleotha Abston, who is charged with kidnapping and killing Eliza Fletcher, a school teacher. Fletcher was abducted during her morning jog near the University of Memphis and her body was found days later. Abston has pleaded not guilty to charges including murder and aggravated kidnapping. The district attorney filed notice with the court that the death penalty will be sought, citing the heinous and cruel nature of the crime. Abston is also charged with a previous rape case and had previously kidnapped a prominent attorney in 2000. No trial date has been set.