MNPD arrests West Nashville serial burglary suspect

From the Metro Nashville Police Department:

An ex-convict with a slew of prior convictions dating back to 1979 is back in police custody and is suspected in more than 100 home break-ins in the Forrest Hills and Bellevue areas of West Nashville over the past five months.

Thomas Bailey Norman, 57, was apprehended by West Precinct detectives this afternoon as he came out of a burglarized home on Westerly Drive carrying a television. He is also believed to have broken into a home on Graybar Lane today. Norman refused to answer questions by police following his arrest.

West Precinct patrol, flex and undercover officers have been working to apprehend this serial burglary suspect for months. He was known for breaking into homes during the daytime hours and stealing jewelry and electronics.

Norman was released from the state prison system in March after his 20-year sentence for three 1992 burglaries expired. Records reflect Norman has a total of 12 convictions dating back to 1979. Ten are for burglary offenses. One is for grand larceny and one is for credit card fraud.

“West Precinct officers have spent countless hours working to apprehend this man, who we believe has victimized scores of families,” Chief Ronal Serpas said. “Unfortunately and predictably, his rap sheet and state prison history aren’t all that surprising.”

For now, Norman is being charged with two counts of aggravated burglary. Additional charges will be placed as the investigation continues and his case progresses through the court system.