Lindale Man Convicted In Florida Of Gilmer Woman’s Murder

Billy Earl Baker

Candace Cooper

A Florida jury found a Lindale man guilty of killing 38-year-old Candace Cooper of Gilmer. They found her body on a beach in Key West and sentenced 51-year-old Billy Baker to life in prison. Baker maintained his innocence and claimed he was out swimming a distance from her when he noticed her floating and unresponsive in the water. He said he pulled her to shore and attempted to revive her. The court recommended that Baker receive mental health counseling, life skills training, and any substance abuse counseling that he may need.