BREVARD COUNTY, Fla. – An off-duty Brevard County deputy shot a man during a burglary just after 12 a.m. Sunday on Foothill Drive.
Authorities said Deputy Jessie Holton was alerted by another resident in the area of the alleged burglar, identified as 32-year-old Wilford McCloud.
Jesse Lehan said he heard Holton shouting orders for McCloud to surrender and went inside to grab his brother.
As Holton attempted to arrest McCloud, the man was reportedly violently resisting, which led to Holton shooting McCloud.
"By the time I came back outside with him we probably heard it four or five more times and then probably after the fourth or fifth time heard four gunshots," he said.
Authorities said McCloud was transported to the hospital with serious but non-life-threatening injures.
Lehan said the shooting took place behind a home where the deputy had chased McCloud.
McCloud was arrested just days before for carrying a concealed firearm by a convicted felon and has an extensive record.
Officials said McCloud is facing multiple charges in several burglaries in the Foothill Drive area, as well as aggravated assault on a law enforcement officer.
Neighbors said with McCloud headed to jail, they feel safer.
"You know, he did break into at least six or seven cars that I know of, so maybe we'll be safe for a little bit," said Lehan.
Holton, an eight-year employee with the Brevard County Sheriff's Office, was placed on paid administrative leave as the incident is investigated.