Florida sheriff's sergeant arrested for allegedly assaulting elderly couple at bar

An off-duty sergeant with the Volusia County Sheriff's Office in Florida was arrested following an incident at Merk's Bar & Grill on Monday. Jason Stickels, 44, was accused of assaulting a 71-year-old woman and her 77-year-old husband, according to a statement from the sheriff's office. Surveillance video reportedly shows Stickels creating unwanted contact with the couple, leading to the woman backing away and stating that Stickels attempted to kiss her. When her husband intervened, Stickels allegedly grabbed his throat. A bystander intervened and subdued Stickels until police arrived. He was charged with two counts of felony battery on a person aged 65 or older and was released after posting bond. Following the incident, Stickels was placed on administrative leave and was required to surrender his law enforcement equipment pending further disciplinary action.