Lisa Morelock defends herself with a bat against home intruder
Lisa Morelock opened her door in Kingsport this weekend after hearing a knock on Saturday night after a woman who appeared said she was handing out flyers searching for a lost dog, WJHL reported.
However, when she pulled the door back she was grabbed by the arm by a man, later identified as Joe M. Sotello, wearing a mask who jumped out and tried to drag her outside, police say.
Just be strong, I know it’s scary,’ the brave woman said. ‘Try to get over your fear and react.’
Police say Sotello, fled to a house down the street and the residents inside that home were ironically relatives of the victims and held him until authorities arrived.
The 34-year-old man has been charged with aggravated robbery and aggravated burglary.
His girlfriend has not been charged as of Monday and claimed to police that she cooperated with his alleged plan out of fear.
KPD Public Information Officer Thomas M. Patton told Kingsport Times-News that Sotello later confessed and said “had been going through some hard times.”
He is being held in Sullivan County Jail in Blountville pending arraignment, in lieu of a $35,000 bond as specified by the presiding magistrate.
That’s why home invasion always feels like such a personal crime. To know that somebody has entered your sacred space, uninvited and unwanted, can enrage even the most even-tempered among us.
Even worse is when homes are broken into while the owners are inside. Not only is this a violation of property rights, but an armed and panicky intruder can pose a serious threat to the safety of the homeowners.
Sometimes, level-headed homeowners are able to stand up for themselves and ward off the would-be burglars. When intruders rushed past Lisa Morelock at her own front door, she had only one thought: “No. Not today.”
A person’s home is supposed to be their “castle.” People work hard to buy homes, pay their mortgages, and keep their property — and themselves — safe.
Alex D is a conservative journalist, who covers all issues of importance for conservatives. He brings attention and insight from what happens in the White House to the streets of American towns, because it all has an impact on our future, and the country left for our children. Exposing the truth is his ultimate goal, mixed with wit where it’s appropriate, and feels that journalism shouldn’t be censored. Join him & let’s spread the good word!
Good for Mrs. , we have to let these criminals know , that were not going to stand for this any more ! I applaud this woman for standing tall in the face of danger !