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.
After she backed away and stood up, her husband confronted Stickels.
Police said Stickels then rushed toward the man and grabbed him by the throat, even after a waitress attempted to separate the two men.
The video also shows another customer stepping in to stop the confrontation. The bystander approached Stickels from behind, placed him in a chokehold, and brought him to the ground until officers arrived.
According to the charging affidavit, Stickels identified himself to responding officers by saying, "you know who I am," before displaying his Volusia Sheriff's Office badge.
Following the Arrest, the sheriff's office placed Stickels on administrative leave and required him to surrender his badge, firearm, and other law enforcement equipment while disciplinary proceedings move forward.
Stickels has been charged with two counts of felony battery on a person 65 years of age or older. Court records show he was released from jail Monday after posting a surety bond.
The sheriff's office said the disciplinary process could result in his termination.