HOUSTON – Customers who came to an Academy sporting goods store near Katy were not just greeted by helpful staff and enticing sale items. When they walked in from the parking lot, they were met by a Harris County sheriff's deputy processing the arrest of a fellow officer of the law.
An HPD spokesman has confirmed to Channel 2 that one of its rookie officers, Stephen Sargent, was arrested at the Academy Sports and Outdoors store at Interstate 10 and the Grand Parkway. Sources say he walked in sometime after 2: p.m. Monday and stole about $60 worth of ammunition.
"I can't imagine why he would be doing something like that," customer Chris Kelly said. "You think that he would be have the legal means. Maybe he doesn't get paid enough."
Officials with the Houston Police Department said Sargent has only been on the force for a few months and was still listed as a probationary officer. As to why he would allegedly steal ammunition -- for now, we are waiting to hear from Sargent himself.
"Obviously he shouldn't 't need it for his job," says Kelly.
"I'm shocked," says customer Tracy Wollney. "But not really, these days. Pretty crazy."
Sargent was charged with theft and his bond was set at $500. His first court appearance is set for Feb. 23.