Serial burglary suspects may be connected to murder

OCALA (FOX 13) - It was a crime that stunned a quiet, Citrus County community: A prominent composer was bound, beaten, and stabbed during the day in his own home. Don "Terry" Plumeri, 71, was murdered March 31. Since then, the Citrus County Sheriff's Office has been on a manhunt to find those responsible.

"It was a very violent scene. It was very obvious that we had an individual or individuals on our hands that had no regard for human life," Citrus County Sheriff's Captain Brad Smith said.

Last Friday, detectives got their big break. Husband and wife Darren Decker and Jessica Baker were arrested in connection with approximately 60 home burglaries across Marion, Citrus, Alachua, Levy, and Sumter counties.

Investigators say the string of crimes began in January. Detectives say the couple ransacked homes, mostly during the day, and would swipe pillowcases from inside to carry out jewelry, guns, and electronics.

The suspects were tracked down after detectives say they attempted to sell some of the stolen items. During a search at their Ocala home following their arrest, investigators say they got a glaring indication that all the crimes were committed by the pair.

"There were multiple pillow cases recovered during our search warrant," Smith said.

Investigators believe the same method of operation applied to Plumeri's case. They say Decker and Baker thought his Dunellon home was empty when they broke into it late last month. Now, they're building a case to charge them with the brutal slaying.

"We're very confident we have the right people identified," Smith said.

Investigators are going through forensic evidence to build their case for added murder charges. Decker and Baker are currently being held in jail without bond.