DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. — Gregory Ramos was 15 years old when he strangled his mother two years ago, then buried her body beneath a fire pit at a church.
He was sentenced on Friday to 45 years in prison as part of a plea deal.
During the emotional hearing, the suspect’s grandmother and other family members grieved over losing two loved ones.
The courtroom was full of emotion as Ramos apologized for his actions. His family was teary-eyed.
“I refuse to make excuses. I can only plead for forgiveness,” he said in court.
Ramos killed his mother Gail Cleavenger in 2018. The DeBary teen first tried covering up his mother’s murder, even getting a couple of friends to help him.
He’s since confessed to killing his mother after a heated argument about his grades. He buried her body in a fire pit at River City Church.
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In December, he pleaded guilty to 1st degree murder.
“I’m here today to take responsibility for my actions. I am guilty of the crimes against me,” he said.
“She had beautiful qualities. She was beautiful. Compassionate,” said Ramos’ grandmother Catherine Goretsky.
His aunts and uncles shared memories of the late mother as well. They lamented the loss of not one, but two loved ones, Cleavenger and Ramos.
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“My love for Gail is faithful and unwavering,” said Ramos’ aunt Ivy Wick.
After the sentencing his grandmother was allowed to see Ramos up close without a mask one last time. She said a prayer for him.
Ramos’ friends, 17-year-olds Dylan Ceglarek and Brian Porras, remain behind bars for their part in the coverup.
His plea deal also includes lifetime probation once he’s released from prison.