A man accused of the 2022 killing of a Memphis kindergarten teacher has been sentenced to life in prison without parole after pleading guilty to multiple charges, including first-degree murder and aggravated kidnapping. Cleotha Abston, 40, was set to go on trial next year but decided to give up his right to appeal, bringing an end to the more than two-year case.
The sentencing was announced by Shelby County District Attorney Steve Mulroy, who stated that the agreement brings closure to the victim's family and ensures that the community is safe from a dangerous individual. Abston's guilty plea means that he will spend the rest of his life behind bars.
