# The Tragic Stolen Light of Eliza Fletcher

Page: https://stenobird.com/podcast/forensic-files-unsealed-6989771/the-tragic-stolen-light-of-eliza-fletcher
Text version: https://stenobird.com/podcast/forensic-files-unsealed-6989771/the-tragic-stolen-light-of-eliza-fletcher.md
Podcast: [Forensic Files Unsealed](https://stenobird.com/podcast/forensic-files-unsealed-6989771)
Published: 2026-09-19T06:08:20+00:00
Episode link: https://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-tragic-stolen-light-of-eliza-fletcher--75230830
Audio file: https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/75230830/the_backlog_that_killed_eliza_fletcher.mp3
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JSON: https://stenobird.com/v1/public/podcasts/forensic-files-unsealed-6989771/episodes/the-tragic-stolen-light-of-eliza-fletcher
Duration seconds: 2649

## Resource

This episode details the tragic kidnapping and murder of Eliza Fletcher, a dedicated kindergarten teacher and mother from Memphis who was abducted during a pre-dawn run in 2022. Investigators utilized surveillance footage and DNA evidence found on a pair of sandals to identify the suspect as Cleotha Abston, a man with an extensive history of violent crime. The account highlights a critical failure in the justice system, as Abston’s DNA from a previous rape kit had not been processed in time to prevent Fletcher's death. Following a massive community response and the discovery of her body, the legal proceedings concluded with Abston receiving a life sentence without parole. Ultimately, the tragedy spurred legislative changes regarding the processing of forensic evidence to ensure better public safety in the future. Content Warning: This podcast contains discussions of homicide, violence, abuse, and other graphic themes related to real-life criminal events. It is intended for mature audiences and listener discretion is advised. This episode includes AI-generated content.

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## Transcript

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