A Cornelia man has been sentenced to life in prison with the chance of parole, plus 20 years, for his role in the death of a Mt. Airy man. William Downer was sentenced in Habersham County Superior Court Thursday. He was convicted of murder, armed robbery, aggravated assault and burglary earlier this month in connection with the 2012 murder of Michael Larry Hill.
Habersham County Superior Court Judge Russell “Rusty” Smith handed down the sentences after hearing evidence from the defense and prosecution. Separate sentences were not handed down for aggravated assault and burglary. According to a news release issued by the Mountain Judicial Circuit District Attorney’s Office those sentences were, by law, merged into the others.
READ: Cornelia Man Convicted of Murder
By Georgia law, Downer must serve at least 30 years in prison before he’s eligible for parole. The 20 year sentence for robbery will run consecutive to the murder sentence, meaning the 54-year old Downer most likely will spend the rest of his life in prison.
Prosecutors say Downer and co-defendant Albert Brown disposed of Hill’s body by burning it at a residence on Ayres Road in Mt. Airy on August 28, 2012. Brown was among those who testified during Downer’s trial. He’s now serving a life sentence for his role in the murder, as well.
