Prepare to be blown away by the incredible true story behind the film 'Roofman' - a tale so wild, it could have been written by the most imaginative screenwriter!
Leigh Moore, a single mother going through a divorce, was about to turn 40 when her life took an unexpected turn. Little did she know, her new boyfriend, Jeffrey Manchester, was not who he claimed to be. He was an army veteran with a dark past, a fugitive on America's Most Wanted list, and his story is nothing short of extraordinary.
Manchester, a former member of the 82nd Airborne Division, struggled to adjust to civilian life. Rejected by his wife and unable to provide for his children, he embarked on a unique mission. Beginning in 1998, he utilized his military precision to rob McDonald's restaurants by sawing through their roofs at night. With a cordial manner, he instructed employees to grab their jackets before locking them in freezers. It's a bizarre and daring method, and he's believed to have pulled off this scheme at over 40 stores!
In 2000, Manchester was caught and sentenced to 45 years in prison. But his story doesn't end there. In 2004, he escaped and went into hiding, choosing an audacious location - a Toys 'R' Us store in Charlotte. He lived clandestinely there for months, surviving on baby food and M&Ms, and even dated Leigh Moore, who had no idea of his true identity.
But here's where it gets controversial... Manchester's escape and subsequent life on the run raise questions about his motives and the lengths he went to. Was it purely about providing for his family, or did he enjoy the thrill of the game? The film 'Roofman', starring Channing Tatum and Kirsten Dunst, explores these questions and more.
Leigh Moore, now 60, has had the opportunity to reflect on this brief but impactful period of her life. She visited Manchester in prison and even makes a cameo in the film. When asked about her thoughts on his crimes, she believes he regrets his actions and has had time to reflect on his mistakes during his lengthy prison sentence.
'Roofman' is a captivating film that sheds light on a stranger-than-fiction story. It's a must-watch for anyone intrigued by true crime and the complexities of human behavior.
And this is the part most people miss... the impact of this story on Leigh Moore's life. She had to make a difficult choice between her safety and her feelings for Manchester. It's a powerful reminder of the choices we make and the consequences that follow.
What do you think? Is Manchester's story a tragic tale of a man trying to provide for his family, or a dangerous game gone too far? Share your thoughts in the comments and let's discuss!