Burglary Suspect Facing Numerous Charges

Gwinnett County Police investigators say has a long history of criminal behavior.

Police have identified the burglary suspect as Matt Sargent, 29. According to police, Sargent has been arrested 12 times in Gwinnett County. Among those arrests are charges related to pointing a gun or pistol at another.

Sargent is accused of entering a home on Williamsburg Lane in unincorporated Norcross at about 8 a.m. on Monday, March 21. Police say Sargent had a stick when he confronted the occupants and demanded money. Sargent allegedly fled the residence after taking a laptop computer and a video camera. Officers were unable to locate Sargent, but did find a stolen vehicle in the vicinity.

About an hour and a half later, police were called to 5566 Weatherford Road after a homeowner called 911 to report a man was actively trying to break into her home. The homeowner’s description of the suspect closely matched the suspect description from the earlier incident. According to a GCPD press release, Sargent was using a brick to hit the front door of the home and had succeeded in knocking the doorknob off the door before police arrived.

Sargent reportedly fled from the first responding officer. The officer grabbed Sargent and attempted to place him under arrest, but Sargent was able to break free. When the officer grabbed Sargent a second time, Sargent allegedly repeatedly swung a rock at the officer’s head. According to police, the officer drew his weapon and fired one round which struck Sargent in the back.

Responding officers rendered first aid to Sargent until an ambulance arrived to transport him to the hospital. Sargent’s injuries are not considered life-threatening.

Police found the title to the stolen vehicle recovered near the first incident scene in Sargent’s pocket. Sargent is charged with felony obstruction of a law enforcement officer, criminal attempt to commit burglary and auto theft. Additional charges are pending.

The officer who shot Sargent has been placed on paid administrative leave in accordance with GCPD’s standard procedures.