Attorney argues to have Cleotha Abston rape conviction overturned

By , Daily Memphian Updated: August 07, 2025 6:12 AM CT | Published: August 06, 2025 3:50 PM CT

Cleotha Abston was convicted last year for raping Alicia Franklin in 2021. He later pleaded guilty to the murder of Eliza Fletcher in 2022, and was sentenced to life in prison. 

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Cleotha Abston
Aarron Fleming

Aarron Fleming

Aarron Fleming covers public safety for The Daily Memphian, focusing on crime and the local court system. He earned his bachelor’s in journalism and strategic media from the University of Memphis.

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