In 2006, the life of a 17-year-old girl met a tragic end within the confines of her own residence, a mystery that remains unsolved to this day. The investigation's handling left much to be desired, raising questions about whether the perpetrator could have been apprehended had the proceedings been conducted more diligently.
Candace Hiltz, born on December 22nd, 1988, resided with her parents and siblings in Canon City, Colorado. Despite losing her father at the tender age of five, she excelled academically, earning the label of a child prodigy due to her exceptional intelligence. Demonstrating her prowess in mathematics, Candace delved into calculus at the age of 11. Growing up with brothers, she embraced a tomboyish demeanor, enjoying pursuits like body-building. However, her fondness for jewelry, particularly beaded ball necklaces, showcased a contrasting feminine side. A passion for justice ignited in her youth, leading her to confront school bullies. Dreaming of attending Stanford Law School and becoming a Supreme Court Justice, she was accepted at 17 but altered her educational path to online platforms due to an unexpected pregnancy.
Candace's daughter, Paige, born in September 2015, faced health challenges with Hydrocephalus, emphasizing Candace's commitment to cherishing every moment. Tragically, Paige outlived her mother, being raised by Candace's mother, Delores, until her own demise at the age of 7.
Candace's older brother, James, grappled with severe psychological disorders, living a reclusive life in the woods due to intense paranoia. Despite his struggles, Candace remained fiercely protective of him.
THE ORIGINS OF THE TRAGEDY…
On August 10th, 2006, the Hiltz residence received a visit from Robert Dodd, intending to question James about a trespassing incident. The interaction with Delores and Candace turned tense, prompting threats of arrest. A subsequent argument with Deputy Dodd left the family dog missing, fueling suspicions of foul play. Concerned for Candace and 11-month-old Paige, Delores enlisted a friendly neighbor to check on them during her absence.
Two conflicting accounts emerged. The neighbor claimed Candace was absent, and he soothed a crying Paige, while Delores discovered pools of blood upon returning. Candace's lifeless body, horrifically shot multiple times, was found beneath her bed's green comforter.
THE BOTCHED INVESTIGATION
Deputies Fisker and Dodd mishandled the investigation egregiously. The crime scene lacked proper containment, with open doors risking evidence contamination. Critical clues were overlooked, from shotgun shells scattered around to one found inside the baby's crib. Delores and her son took on the investigative role, collecting evidence discarded by the deputies. Despite compelling proof and complaints against the Sheriff's Department's conduct, the focus remained fixed on James as the prime suspect.
THE PROLONGED DISPUTE
Over the years, the Hiltz familys clashes with the Sheriff's Department persisted. Delores lodged a complaint with the Attorney General, alleging potential corruption within the department. The case stagnated until December 17th, 2016, when a storage unit auction uncovered crucial evidence implicating Deputy Dodd.
THE UNRAVELING SCANDAL
Dodd's involvement escalated into a scandal, revealing Sheriff Baker's corruption and prompting public outrage. Numerous charges, including misconduct and abuse of public records, were filed against Dodd. The investigation exposed the Sheriff's Department's malpractices, leading to widespread condemnation and calls for Sheriff Baker's removal.
THEORIES AND UNRESOLVED QUESTIONS
While suspicions linger about Sheriff Baker's involvement in Candace's murder, alternative
theories circulate. Some propose a random robbery gone wrong, citing the intentional killing of the family dog as a sinister threat. Others question the father of Candace's child, though inconsistencies arise regarding the motive. Despite James' psychological issues, he remains an improbable suspect, raising the lingering question: Who, then, was the second assailant?
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