In a 𝓈𝒽𝓸𝒸𝓀𝒾𝓃𝑔 incident that has left many in disbelief, an off-duty Florida sheriff’s sergeant was arrested after allegedly assaulting an elderly couple at a local bar. The disturbing altercation unfolded at Merk’s Bar & Grill in New Smyrna Beach, where the sergeant reportedly made unwanted advances toward a 71-year-old woman, leading to a confrontation with her 77-year-old husband.
Surveillance footage from the establishment captured the moment when 44-year-old Jason Stickels leaned in to kiss the elderly woman. When her husband intervened, attempting to push Stickels away, the situation escalated dramatically. Witnesses claim that Stickels then grabbed the elderly man by the throat, prompting a bystander to step in and restrain him until law enforcement arrived.
When police officers responded, Stickels appeared to be heavily intoxicated and struggled to articulate what had transpired, reportedly stating, “you know what’s up, man,” while flashing his badge. Patrons at the bar voiced their discontent, urging the police to remove him from the scene.
Volusia County Sheriff Mike Chitwood did not hold back in his condemnation of Stickels’ behavior, remarking on social media, “How to throw away your law enforcement career in 2 minutes.” He expressed regret over the incident, emphasizing that the sergeant’s actions were unacceptable, particularly while off duty and under the influence.
Stickels, who has been with the Volusia County Sheriff’s Office since 2004, now faces serious charges, including two counts of felony battery against individuals aged 65 and older, according to court documents. Following the incident, he was placed on administrative leave and has surrendered his badge and firearm as the sheriff’s office begins its disciplinary process.
As the community grapples with the implications of this incident, many are left wondering how a respected officer could find himself in such a predicament. What does this mean for the future of law enforcement in the area?
