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‘The Grinch’ burglar sentenced after Portland Christmas break-ins shocked families
Authorities said the suspect carried out the crimes just months after being released from prison
A serial burglar nicknamed “The Grinch” has been sentenced to more than 10 years in prison after stealing wrapped Christmas presents and other valuables from homes in Portland.
According to the Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office, 39-year-old Allen Sverre Easley was handed a 128-month prison sentence on May 6 following a string of burglaries that left several families shaken.
One of the most disturbing incidents occurred shortly before Christmas last year, when surveillance footage allegedly captured Easley entering the backyard of the Sassano family home while armed with a gun.
Authorities said Easley kicked open the door and left minutes later carrying a laundry basket filled with wrapped Christmas presents, including sunglasses, matching children’s pyjamas, a sweatsuit, and other gifts intended for the family holiday celebration.
Police linked Easley to multiple break-ins across Portland, with investigators estimating nearly $20,000 worth of stolen property in total.
In addition to the home burglaries, prosecutors connected him to a vehicle break-in at a service centre and possession of contraband while incarcerated at Inverness Jail.
The district attorney’s office noted that Easley’s criminal history stretches back to when he was 18 years old and includes numerous burglary and firearm-related convictions.
Officials also revealed that he had only been released from prison a few months before the December burglaries took place.
During sentencing, Deputy District Attorney Alex Garcia said Easley’s actions permanently affected the victims and justified the lengthy prison term.
Victims who addressed the court described the emotional toll the crimes had taken on their families, with members of the Sassano family saying their children had been left “forever traumatized by Christmas.”
The family later revealed they no longer allow their 10-year-old child to stay home alone following the break-in.
Another victim, Tracy Olsen, told the court he could not stop thinking about what might have happened if his teenage son had been home during the burglary.
Meanwhile, Easley reportedly apologized in court and became emotional while addressing the families.
“I didn’t mean to do that to the kids,” he said. “I am sorry.”
Defense attorney Jennelle Johnson argued that Easley had endured a difficult upbringing and urged the court to consider treatment for drug and alcohol addiction as part of his rehabilitation.
