Florida Sheriff’s Sergeant Arrested After Bar Assault Caught on Camera

An off-duty 🌴Florida sheriff's sergeant has been arrested after authorities say surveillance video captured him assaulting an elderly couple inside a bar, prompting sharp criticism from his own sheriff.

Jason Stickels, 44, a sergeant with the Volusia Sheriff's Office since 2004, was taken into custody Monday following an incident at Merk's Bar & Grill in New Smyrna Beach, per Fox News.

According to the Volusia Sheriff's Office, Stickels allegedly initiated unwanted contact with a couple who were seated near the bar before the situation escalated into a physical confrontation.

Sheriff Mike Chitwood condemned the incident in a social media statement, saying Stickels had disgraced both himself and the agency.

"How to throw away your law enforcement career in 2 minutes. Off duty, stumbling drunk, harassing people who are just trying to enjoy their afternoon," Chitwood wrote. "I apologize for this soon-to-be former Volusia Sheriff's Office sergeant's idiotic behavior today."

New Smyrna Beach police responded to reports of a fight at approximately 4:20 p.m. and arrested Stickels at the scene. Authorities said no injuries were reported.

Investigators allege Stickels first battered a 71-year-old woman who was sitting at a table before attacking her 77-year-old husband after he stepped in.

The woman told police that Stickels attempted to kiss her before she pulled away, according to a charging affidavit.

Surveillance footage released by the sheriff's office shows Stickels standing near the couple before leaning toward the woman.