New Smyrna Beach, Florida — An off-duty Florida sheriff’s sergeant has been arrested after authorities say he assaulted an elderly couple inside a local restaurant following an alleged drunken encounter that was captured on surveillance video.
The incident occurred Monday at Merk’s Bar & Grill in New Smyrna Beach and involved Jason Stickels, 44, a sergeant with the Volusia County Sheriff’s Office who has served with the agency since 2004.
According to charging documents, the confrontation unfolded after Stickels allegedly approached a couple who were seated inside the restaurant and made unwanted advances toward the woman.
Alleged Encounter Escalated Into Physical Confrontation
Investigators said surveillance footage shows Stickels standing behind the couple before leaning toward the 71-year-old woman in an apparent attempt to kiss her.
According to authorities, the woman rejected the advance.
Her 77-year-old husband then attempted to de-escalate the situation by shaking Stickels’ hand and pushing him away from his wife.
Police allege that the interaction quickly turned violent when Stickels grabbed the elderly man by the throat, leading to a struggle inside the restaurant.
Witnesses said another customer intervened, placing Stickels in a headlock and holding him until officers arrived.
Police Say Deputy Appeared Intoxicated
When New Smyrna Beach police responded to the restaurant, investigators said Stickels appeared to be heavily intoxicated.
According to the arrest affidavit, he was unable to clearly explain what had happened. Police said Stickels repeatedly told responding officers:
“you know what’s up, man,”
He also allegedly stated:
“with the county; you know who I am”
before displaying his law enforcement badge.
As officers investigated, witnesses inside the restaurant could reportedly be heard shouting:
“get him out of here”
Sheriff Condemns Deputy’s Alleged Conduct
Following the arrest, Volusia County Sheriff Mike Chitwood publicly criticized the deputy’s alleged actions in a social media statement.
“How to throw away your law enforcement career in 2 minutes.”
The sheriff also wrote:
“Off duty, stumbling drunk, harassing people who are just trying to enjoy their afternoon. I apologize for this soon-to-be former Volusia Sheriff’s Office sergeant’s idiotic behavior today. He is locked up tonight.”
Deputy Faces Felony Charges
According to court records, Stickels has been charged with two counts of felony battery on a person 65 years of age or older.
Following his arrest, the Volusia County Sheriff’s Office placed him on administrative leave pending the outcome of the case.
Officials also confirmed that Stickels has surrendered both his badge and service weapon while the agency conducts disciplinary proceedings.
The criminal case will move through the court system as investigators continue reviewing the incident and any additional evidence connected to the alleged assault.
What are your thoughts on this case? Should law enforcement officers face additional disciplinary consequences for alleged misconduct while off duty? Share your thoughts respectfully in the comments below.
