Crime & Safety
Man Sentenced to 20 Years for Attempted Murder
Ricardo Devon Baker, 24, will be sentenced to 30 years with the first 20 to be served in prison after pleading guilty to attempted murder and several weapons charges today in a Douglas County Superior Court.
Ricardo Devon Baker, 24, will be sentenced to 30 years with the first 20 to be served in prison after pleading guilty to attempted murder and several weapons charges today in a .
Baker was arrested after trying to rob the owner of the with a sawed-off shotgun on Feb. 4, 2011. Baker pulled the trigger and demanded money but fled the crime scene without stolen property, after the gun failed to fire during a struggle with the owner. Assistant District Attorney Tom Kegley established the facts during a courtroom presentation.
Deputies from the found Baker walking along Fairburn Rd. with the sawed-off shotgun in his possession. Three rounds were in the gun's magazine and a test later revealed that the gun was capable of firing, according to a press release by the Douglas County DA's Office.
Find out what's happening in Douglasvillewith free, real-time updates from Patch.
The armed robbery attempt was captured on a 911 call that recorded Baker repeatedly demanding money from the owner. The clerk called after seeing Baker walk into the store with the gun draped across his back.
Baker purchased a Four Loco alcoholic drink and a cigar before leaving the store, according to the press release. The store owner tried to lock the door as he was leaving, but Baker forced his way back in and committed the crimes.
Find out what's happening in Douglasvillewith free, real-time updates from Patch.
Baker said that he had been intoxicated before the crime and said he carried the gun because he was unsure of the level of crime in that area.
“Obviously, anytime a gun is used the crime is very violent and extremely dangerous, and we take that very seriously in my office,” said District Attorney McDade in a press release. “We will continue to demand severe punishment for armed robbers and any other criminals who use guns to victimize Douglas County citizens. This message needs to be delivered clearly, to all criminals even thinking about coming here to commit crimes.”
In addition to attempted murder, Baker, formerly of Maryland, was also found guilty of attempted armed robbery, possession of a firearm during the commission of crime and possession of a sawed-off shotgun.
Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.
