An off-duty Volusia County Sheriff's Office sergeant is facing felony charges after authorities say he attacked an elderly couple at a New Smyrna Beach bar on Monday afternoon. Police identified the sergeant as 44-year-old Jason Stickels, who was arrested following a confrontation at Merk's Bar & Grill.
Arrest and Charges
The New Smyrna Beach Police Department took Stickels into custody after officers responded to a reported fight at Merk's Bar & Grill around 4:20 p.m., according to WFTV. The Volusia County Sheriff's Office told the station that Stickels was charged with two counts of felony battery on a person 65 years of age or older.
According to the sheriff's office, Stickels has been placed on administrative leave. Officials also said he surrendered his law enforcement equipment while the agency conducts a final disciplinary review.
Witness Accounts and Video
WFTV reports that witnesses and video footage showed Stickels first battering a 71-year-old woman who was seated at a table, then battering her 77-year-old husband when he stepped in. A bystander brought Stickels to the ground and restrained him until officers arrived, according to police.
Officers said no injuries were reported at the scene. Some witnesses told reporters they believed the off-duty sergeant appeared to be intoxicated during the encounter.
Department Record and Legal Context
Public records from the Volusia County Sheriff's Office show that Stickels joined the agency in 2004 and has served as a sergeant for several years.
He is charged with two counts of felony battery on people 65 or older, an offense that Florida law treats with enhanced penalties. Under Florida Statute 784.08, aggravated assault or aggravated battery on a victim 65 or older can carry minimum prison terms, fines, and additional sanctions.
Court dates and further booking information had not appeared in public records as of late Monday evening.
