A Fairfax County Police Department sergeant was arrested on April 18 by the Fauquier County Sheriff’s Office for aggravated sexual battery related to an off-duty incident.
The arrest of a law enforcement officer is a significant event that can affect public trust and the department’s operations.
Sergeant Matthew Sylvester, age 40, of Warrenton, was taken into custody at approximately 1 a.m. He is a 16-year veteran assigned to the Internal Affairs Bureau. Authorities said he faces two counts of aggravated sexual battery and that both victims are known to him.
Following his arrest, Sylvester has been placed on administrative leave while both criminal and administrative investigations are underway. The police department has not released further details about the case or the circumstances leading up to the charges.
Officials encouraged community members to stay informed by subscribing to their blog or following them on social media platforms such as X, Facebook, and Instagram at @FairfaxCountyPD.
