Full Breakdown
Investigation into Daytona Beach Golf Club Employees Uncovers Misconduct
1/28/2026, 1:33:56 PM
Allegations and Investigation Overview
In January 2026, an investigation into the Daytona Beach Golf Club revealed that several golf professionals, including Head Golf Professional Brian Stackpole and Assistant Golf Pro Leonard Morrow, improperly accepted cash payments for golf lessons and misapplied discounted fees intended for employees and their immediate families. The inquiry, initiated in August 2025 after a complaint from former employee Stan Bartus, concluded that Stackpole was terminated on January 16, 2026, while Golf Course Manager Brian Jaquet received a five-day suspension without pay.
Background of the Complaints
The investigation was triggered by Bartus's allegations, which included claims of a hostile work environment and intimidation by Stackpole. Bartus, who was fired shortly before filing his complaint, asserted that the pro shop staff had excessively discounted fees, leading to significant revenue losses for the city. A city policy enacted in 2021 allowed employees to play for a $1 surcharge, but Bartus claimed this was being misused.
Findings of the Investigation
The investigation confirmed violations of city policy regarding the acceptance of payments for golf lessons, which are meant to benefit the city rather than individual employees. While Morrow claimed he had received verbal permission to accept payments from Business Enterprise Management Director Michael Stallworth, Stallworth denied recalling such an agreement. The lack of receipts made it impossible to determine the extent of the financial losses incurred by the city.
Workplace Environment and Conduct
The investigation also highlighted Stackpole's inappropriate behavior, which contributed to a toxic workplace atmosphere. According to the report from City Human Resources Director Jim Sexton, Stackpole's termination was warranted due to his "callous" handling of Bartus's dismissal and his overall conduct towards staff and customers. Although the investigation did not substantiate claims of age discrimination or retaliation, it emphasized the need for better oversight and adherence to city policies.
Official Statements and Responses
City Manager Deric Feacher stated, "The months-long review confirmed a clear violation of city policy involving the improper acceptance of payments for golf lessons." He noted that the city had strengthened oversight and implemented tighter internal controls during the investigation. Sexton recommended that Jaquet be suspended for failing to address Stackpole's behavior and warned that future violations could lead to termination.
Criticism and Opposition
Bartus's allegations raised concerns about the management practices at the Daytona Beach Golf Club, particularly regarding the handling of employee conduct and financial policies. Critics argue that the city must ensure stricter enforcement of its policies to prevent similar issues in the future.
What's Next
Following the investigation, the city plans to maintain heightened oversight at the golf club to safeguard operational integrity and prevent further misconduct. The changes to the employee discount policy, which now restricts the $1 rate to active employees only, will also be monitored for compliance.
