CLEVELAND, Ohio - A Cuyahoga County jury Thursday rejected a Cleveland woman’s claims that she shot and killed her casual romantic partner in self-defense.

Manija Downey, 30, was convicted of two counts of murder and two counts of felonious assault in the April 29, 2023, death of Cynquan Leggett. The jury found her not guilty of aggravated murder.

She showed no reaction as Common Pleas Judge Mollie Ann Murphy read the verdict. Downey, who now faces life in prison, will be sentenced on Oct. 23.

“This verdict holds Manija Downey accountable for taking the life of Cynquan Leggett,” said Michael O’Malley, the county prosecutor, in a statement.

Jurors began deliberating the case Monday afternoon following a weeklong trial. They sought additional guidance from Murphy in navigating the self

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