A Norfolk man is facing prison time after he was found guilty of breaking into a downtown restaurant last summer, causing more than $1,400 in damage and stealing property.
Larry Antonio Sutton Jr., 44, was convicted on October 28 of felony burglary and vandalism, along with a misdemeanor charge of petit larceny. Judge Jamilah D. LeCruise, who presided over the bench trial, found Sutton guilty on all counts. Sentencing is scheduled for January 9, 2026.
The break-in happened around 10 a.m. on July 13, 2024. Prosecutors say Sutton rode his bike into an alley beside a Granby Street restaurant, climbed onto a second-floor patio, and broke in through a glass door. Once inside, he rifled through the cash register drawers and tried—but failed—to get into the manager’s office using a fire extinguisher.
A cleaning crew showed up while Sutton was still inside. He ran, but not before taking some property with him. The total damage to the restaurant was estimated at $1,450.
Security footage played a key role in identifying Sutton and connecting him to the crime.
Following the verdict, Commonwealth’s Attorney Ramin Fatehi pointed to the broader impact incidents like this have on local business owners, particularly during an uncertain economic time.
“Businesses, whether in Downtown Norfolk or in other parts of the city, are feeling the squeeze from higher prices and consumers who are worried about their jobs and health insurance,” Fatehi said. “When someone adds to their pressure by breaking into their business, damaging their property, and stealing from them, it can make the difference between staying open and facing closure.”
Fatehi’s office has made small business protections a priority in downtown and throughout Norfolk, where property crimes like burglary can undercut efforts to revitalize commercial corridors.
Sutton pleaded not guilty and opted for a judge trial. After hearing both sides, Judge LeCruise found the evidence convincing.
Sutton will be sentenced in Norfolk Circuit Court in early January.