The Vernon Parish Sheriff’s Office announced the arrest March 11 of 35-year old Matthew Sterling of Leesville.  The Sheriff’s Office responded to a call at approximately 4 p.m. Monday afternoon related to an aggravated burglary at a residence on Bolgiano Loop. 

Deputies responding learned that Sterling had kicked the doors in at the residence, stole a firearm once inside, and armed himself.  Sterling fled to another building on the property and barricaded himself inside.  He sporadically fired his weapon and made threats toward the deputies.  The location was secured, and four hours of unsuccessful negotiations ensued. 

The Rapides Parish SWAT team responded to assist the VPSO.  When they deployed a Bear Cat armored vehicle that removed the door to the structure, Sterling surrendered without further incident.  Sterling was transported to a medical facility for treatment and evaluation.

Sterling was arrested and charged with one count Aggravated Burglary, one count Criminal Damage to Property, one count Resisting an Officer, one count Possession of a Firearm by a Felon, and one count Possession of a Stolen Firearm.  Bond has not been set, and Sterling remains in the Vernon Parish Jail.

Vernon Parish Sheriff Sam Craft commended all agencies involved for their professionalism, with a special thanks to Rapides Sheriff Mark Wood and his personnel.