Larry Antonio Sutton Jr., 44, was found guilty in October of felony vandalism and burglary, as well as misdemeanor larceny, following an incident at a downtown Norfolk restaurant last summer.
According to court records, on July 13, 2024, at approximately 10 a.m., Sutton broke into a restaurant located on Granby Street while it was closed. Security footage captured Sutton arriving by bicycle to an alley beside the establishment. He then climbed to the second-story patio and entered through a broken glass door. Once inside, Sutton checked the cash register drawers and attempted unsuccessfully to force open the manager’s office door with a fire extinguisher. A cleaning crew encountered him during the break-in, prompting him to flee with stolen property. The total damage caused was estimated at $1,450.
Sutton pleaded not guilty to all charges—vandalism, burglary, and petit larceny—and requested a bench trial before Judge Jamilah D. LeCruise on October 28. After hearing arguments from both sides, Judge LeCruise convicted Sutton on all counts. Sentencing is scheduled for January 9, 2026.
Commonwealth’s Attorney Ramin Fatehi commented on the impact of such crimes: “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,” said Fatehi. “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. We remain committed to supporting small businesses by to holding accountable the people who commit these crimes.”
The prosecution was led by Assistant Commonwealth’s Attorney Wm. Joshua Holder with Norfolk Police Detective John A. Schraft Jr. conducting the investigation.
