Replying to Anyone know shit about XBox 360s?

So I acquired a 360 somewhat illegitimately (I didn't steal it, it's a long story and I have a cast so I don't feel like typing it out though). Anyways, it's ghetto and makes weird noises but it does turn on and it does appear to work... Problem is the controller doesn't. When I press the middle button to turn it on and connect it to the Xbox the green light around the edge just blinks on and off. I tried replacing the batteries but that didn't work. I don't feel like dropping $50 on a new one. Anyone know what's up?