Florida Cop Faces Felony Charge After Incident with Vietnam Veteran

A Florida man, identified as Jason Stickels, age 44, is facing felony charges following a drunken altercation with a Vietnam veteran. Stickels, a sergeant, could also face termination from his position, according to the Volusia Sheriff’s Office.

The New Smyrna Beach Police Department arrested Stickels on Monday after they received reports of a fight at Merck’s Bar & Grill at around 4:20 p.m.

Witnesses and video evidence suggest that Stickels “instigated and created unwanted contact” with an elderly couple, a claim that seems backed by footage of the incident. It appears Ms. Stickels first struck a 71-year-old woman seated at a table, followed by her 77-year-old husband, who tried to intervene.

In the video, after Stickels attempted to kiss the woman, her husband pushed him away. This led to Stickels shoving the elderly man, which prompted a waitress to try to diffuse the situation. Eventually, another patron intervened, placing Stickels in a chokehold and bringing him to the ground.

Fortunately, no injuries were reported from the incident. Stickels has been charged with two counts of felony assault against individuals over the age of 65.

Following his arrest, Stickels was placed on administrative leave and surrendered his law enforcement equipment while facing disciplinary actions, which may include termination, as stated by the sheriff’s office.

Volusia County Sheriff Mike Chitwood expressed his disappointment, questioning how someone could waste their career as a law enforcement officer within minutes. He encouraged the elderly couple involved to enjoy their next meal at Merck’s as a gesture of goodwill.

In addition to this, Stickels reportedly entered a rehabilitation program and identified the veteran involved as a fellow former soldier. The sheriff’s office noted that Stickels has been with the department since 2004.

Court records indicate that he was granted bail set at $5,000 for each count.