The man dubbed the Pillowcase Burglar could face the death penalty if convicted in the death of a 57-year-old woman in Marion County.
Darren Decker, 42, won the nickname after a string of burglaries in Sumter, Marion, Levy, Alachua and Citrus counties committed with his 44-year-old wife, Jessica Baker. The investigation revealed that the couple forcibly entered the victims’ residences through either the front or rear door. Once inside, they stole guns, jewelry and small electronics. Their signature was using pillowcases from the victims’ homes to transport the stolen property.
Decker is also facing a charge of first degree murder in the death of Tamara Bedenbaugh of Ocala. Baker has not been charged in her death.
The prosecutor’s office has announced it will be pursuing the death penalty due to the “heinous” nature of Bedehnbaugh’s death. Her home showed signs of forced entry and Decker allegedly stole her wallet, jewelry and cash.
