Leigh Moore’s life took a dramatic turn on her 40th birthday. Instead of celebrating, she received an unexpected visit from the FBI. Agents informed her that her boyfriend, Jeffrey Manchester, was a fugitive listed on America’s Most Wanted. This shocking revelation shattered her sense of reality. Moore recalls her devastation as if mourning someone lost.
Jeffrey Manchester: The Notorious Fugitive
Jeffrey Manchester, an army veteran, made headlines for robbing numerous McDonald’s restaurants. Utilizing a unique method, he sawed through the roofs of the establishments to execute his heists. His criminal career began in 1998, leading to over 40 successful robberies. After being caught in 2000, he received a 45-year prison sentence. However, everything changed in 2004 when he escaped from prison in North Carolina.
Life in Hiding
Following his escape, Manchester sought refuge in an abandoned Toys “R” Us store in Charlotte. For several months, he lived undetected within the store, sustaining himself on food from the shelves. He constructed a makeshift living space behind a bicycle display, using baby food and candy while decorating his hidden area with Spider-Man sheets. Manchester even monitored store employees through video baby monitors, learning their daily routines.
Meeting Leigh Moore
In 2004, amidst his chaotic life, Manchester met Leigh Moore at a local church. Recently divorced, Moore found comfort in his presence. Manchester engaged with the church community, quickly winning over Moore and her children. Despite his charming demeanor, she remained oblivious to his criminal history.
- Leigh Moore was going through a divorce during their meeting.
- Manchester acted charmingly around Moore’s children.
- He claimed to work for the federal government.
Moore later admitted there were no signs to suspect him. Manchester dressed well, had a great sense of humor, and was seemingly polite. Even during their early interactions, nothing seemed alarming to her.
FBI Intervention and Capture
On January 5, 2005, the FBI approached Moore at her workplace. They disclosed Manchester’s true identity and his status as a fugitive. Devastated but cooperative, Moore agreed to assist the authorities in capturing him. She made a call under the pretense of normalcy, supposedly inviting him to her birthday celebration.
Manchester arrived at her home with flowers just as law enforcement moved in to apprehend him. Meanwhile, Moore was a mile away, listening anxiously to the operation. Once caught, Manchester expressed remorse for deceiving her, leading to emotional conversations between them.
Life After the Arrest
After the apprehension, Moore faced challenges but eventually moved on with her life. She remarried a decade later. Despite the past, she maintains a friendship with Manchester, speaking to him regularly.
- Manchester is currently imprisoned in Central prison, Raleigh, North Carolina.
- He is not scheduled for release until 2036.
- Moore continues to communicate with him every two weeks.
Both individuals have expressed relief and gratitude for the release of the film “Roofman,” which dramatizes their unusual story. Moore reflects on her past, noting that the experience had a profound impact on her life, shaping her perspective on forgiveness and grace.
Conclusion
The saga of Leigh Moore and Jeffrey Manchester, although marred by crime, showcases the complexities of human relationships amidst extraordinary circumstances. “Roofman,” featuring Channing Tatum and Kirsten Dunst, brings this captivating tale to the big screen, offering audiences a glimpse into their intertwined fates.
