MEMPHIS, Tenn. (AP) — The trial is set to begin this week for Cleotha Abston, the man accused of kidnapping and killing a Memphis school teacher. However, before facing charges related to the teacher’s death, Abston is expected to go to trial for a separate rape case. The trial for Alicia Franklin’s rape case commenced on Monday, with jury selection taking place. Abston faces charges of aggravated rape, especially aggravated kidnapping, and unlawful possession of a weapon in connection with Franklin’s case.
It is worth noting that WREG, the news outlet covering the story, typically refrains from identifying rape victims. However, Franklin has expressed her desire to be recognized publicly. Abston was indicted in the 2021 rape of Franklin shortly after being charged in the highly publicized Eliza Fletcher case. Abston’s attorneys had sought to have the rape trial relocated due to the extensive media coverage surrounding the Fletcher kidnapping and murder case, but their request was denied by Judge Lee Coffee, who expressed confidence in the ability to hold a fair trial in Shelby County.
Franklin’s attorney, Gary Smith, has criticized the Memphis Police Department (MPD) for its handling of the rape investigation, claiming that they failed to thoroughly investigate the case, which allowed Abston to remain free until he allegedly killed Fletcher. According to Smith, the MPD did not expedite the processing of the rape kit evidence, resulting in a delay of almost nine months before it could be examined in the lab. Smith believes that if the police had acted promptly, Franklin’s life could have been saved.
Following Fletcher’s tragic death, the legislature passed a new law mandating the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation to provide quarterly reports on sexual assault kit testing times. The Fletcher case is expected to proceed once Franklin’s trial concludes. Abston’s attorneys are also anticipated to file a motion for a change of venue in the Fletcher case.
The trial proceedings will shed light on the horrific crimes allegedly committed by Cleotha Abston. As the trial progresses, the justice system will have an opportunity to determine his guilt or innocence in both the rape and murder cases. The outcome of these trials will undoubtedly have a profound impact on the victims’ families and the entire community, seeking closure, justice, and a sense of safety restored.