Gonzalez, Sr. wants to represent self

PENSACOLA, Florida (WALA) - Leonard Patrick Gonzalez, Sr. appeared before an Escambia County Circuit judge Tuesday afternoon. Gonzalez, Sr. is one of the suspects accused in the murder of Byrd and Melanie Billings. The couple was killed inside their Beulah home in 2009.

Gonzalez, Sr. asked the judge to remove his court-appointed attorney.

"I would like to represent myself. The public defender's office is not treating my fairly," said Gonzalez, Sr.

Judge Nick Geeker decided to take the request under advisement.

"My hope is that the communication will improve between you and your attorney, Mr. Gonzalez," said Judge Geeker.

Judge Geeker also announced the 2011 trial dates for the co-defendants in the case:

• January 10 - Wayne Coldiron
• February 25 - Donnie Stallworth
• April 25 - Gary Sumner/ Leonard Patrick Gonzalez, Sr.
• May 2 - Pamela Long Wiggins

Rakeem Florence and Frederick Thornton already plead guilty in the case.

Leonard Patrick Gonzalez, Jr., the accused ringleader, was convicted in October.