RAINELLE, WV (LOOTPRESS) – Man arrested after trying to break into a home but told police he was there to tell the owners that their Christmas lights were pretty, although there were no Christmas lights.
On the evening of Monday, November 11, 2024, officers responded to an attempted break-in reported at a residence on 13th Street in Rainelle. Greenbrier County 911 dispatched officers to the location at approximately 9:56 p.m., where the homeowner reported multiple individuals trying to enter her home.
Upon arriving at the scene, officers observed a man, later identified as Eston Norton, leaving the property. Norton appeared intoxicated, slurred his words, and was slow to follow officer commands. A search revealed that he was carrying a small amount of marijuana and drug paraphernalia, including a pipe he identified as being used for methamphetamine.
The homeowner told officers she heard Norton pounding on her windows while yelling at her and threatening violence if she didn’t comply. She reported that Norton tried to force entry, prompting her to hide her children in a separate room. Although Norton did not break into the house, officers found evidence of attempted entry, including flattened bushes beneath the window and a partially raised screen.
Upon contacting Mr. Norton, he advised that he was there to tell them the Christmas lights were pretty, although this officer noted no lights. As this officer was pulling out of the driveway, the male subject was yelling at the homeowner, stating that he f***ing hated her.
He is expected to face charges related to attempted burglary, property damage, and drug possession. Greenbrier County officers are investigating to determine whether any other suspects were involved.
