Michigan man found guilty of Mon County murder, kidnapping gets 2 life sentences

MORGANTOWN, W.Va. (WBOY) — Cleotis Eppes, who was found guilty earlier this year of kidnapping and fatally shooting Matthew Moore in 2022 , was sentenced in Monongalia County on Tuesday.

The Monongalia County Prosecutor’s Office confirmed to 12 News that Eppes will serve one life sentence for murder, one life sentence for kidnapping, and 1-5 years for conspiracy to commit murder. The sentences will be served consecutively. During his trial, a jury determined that Eppes would not have mercy during his sentencing, meaning he is not eligible for parole.

Eppes was arrested in June 2022 after Moore’s body was found in May in the middle of Round Bottom Road . He died from multiple gunshot wounds. Court documents said that the Eppes and Moore were involved in selling drugs and that Moore owed him money.

The second person charged in the case, Arlo Romano, of Morgantown, testified against Eppes during his lengthy trial in March . He was sentenced earlier this year.

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