MERCER COUNTY, WV (LOOTPRESS) – A Mercer County man is facing multiple charges after state police say he was caught using a crowbar to try to force his way into a Princeton residence Monday morning.
According to a criminal complaint, Trooper C. L. Kennedy responded to a trespassing complaint on May 18, 2026, at a home located on Shade Tree Circle in Princeton.
The complainant told authorities that Simon Lambert was not permitted to be on the property and had previously been evicted from the residence. The victim reportedly informed troopers that she received information Lambert was attempting to enter the home.
When troopers arrived, they allegedly observed a man matching Lambert’s description in the backyard striking the back door with a metal crowbar, causing damage to the residence.
Police detained Lambert at the scene. According to the complaint, Lambert told troopers he was trying to get inside the home to retrieve a dog and admitted he had ripped the door handle off during the incident. He also reportedly claimed the house belonged to his sister.
During a search following his arrest, troopers allegedly discovered seven Suboxone packs in Lambert’s pockets without a prescription.
Lambert is charged with attempted commission of a felony, destruction of property, trespassing, and possession of a controlled substance. The incident remains under investigation.
