MERCER COUNTY, WV (LOOTPRESS) – A Mercer County man was arrested after deputies say he was caught inside a building while wearing a mask, gloves and a hat, after property owners spotted him on surveillance cameras and called 911.
According to the Mercer County Sheriff’s Department, deputies responded to a reported burglary at approximately 10:56 p.m. on May 28 at 115 Viva Court in the Brushfork area.
Mercer County 911 advised responding deputies that a male wearing a hat and mask was inside a building on the property and that the caller was actively watching him through a surveillance camera system.
While deputies were en route, dispatchers advised that another individual associated with the caller was heading to the property.
Upon arrival, deputies encountered several individuals outside who reported the suspect was still inside the building. A male on scene led deputies to the rear entrance and opened the door, allowing officers to conduct a search of the structure.
During the search, deputies located a man hiding inside a spare room. Authorities said the suspect was wearing a mask, gloves and a 101st Airborne Division hat. Deputies immediately recognized the individual as Mark Alan Horne, whom they had encountered during previous interactions.
Horne was taken into custody without incident.
While deputies were investigating, Andrew and Shae Hudgins informed officers that a woman was looking out from a nearby trailer where Horne lived. Deputies believed the woman to be Brooke Alison Gillenwater, who was known to law enforcement from previous encounters.
A records check revealed Gillenwater had an active Mercer County Magistrate Court capias warrant. After deputies confirmed the warrant, Gillenwater exited the residence and was taken into custody without incident.
Property owner Tammy Bowling later arrived at the scene and advised deputies she wished to pursue criminal charges.
Investigators photographed the scene and collected statements from witnesses. Shae Hudgins also provided deputies with surveillance footage that allegedly showed Horne inside the building.
Following his arrest, Horne agreed to speak with investigators at the Mercer County Sheriff’s Office after being advised of his Miranda rights.
According to deputies, Horne admitted he had entered the building and did not deny being inside when officers found him. During the interview, Horne reportedly stated he was hungry and entered the structure looking for food. He told investigators he believed food was stored inside and knew other people had previously gone into the building for the same reason.
Horne also admitted he had been wearing a mask and told deputies he entered the building through a window.
Investigators reported that Horne stated Gillenwater had no involvement in the incident and was unaware of what had occurred.
As a result of the investigation, Horne was charged with breaking and entering, attempted commission of a misdemeanor, and wearing a mask or face covering while committing an offense.
Both Horne and Gillenwater were transported to Southern Regional Jail, where they were held pending arraignment. Gillenwater’s arrest was based on the outstanding capias warrant, according to deputies.
The investigation remains ongoing.
