police-misconduct · Amelia Hotel at the Beach, Fernandina Beach, Nassau County, Florida

What happened after Nassau County Deputy William Woods was arrested?

What happened?

Nassau County Sheriff's Office Deputy William Woods was arrested and charged with official misconduct and misdemeanor battery after body-worn camera footage contradicted his official report of an incident involving Tyler Merritt. Woods was terminated from the force, pleaded not guilty, and his case was ongoing as of December 4, 2025. Tyler Merritt was adjudicated guilty of driving under the influence, while other charges against him were dismissed or not prosecuted.

Interim public outcome

Last checked: Jun 21, 2026
Sources: firstcoastnews.com; WJXT News4JAX; The Yulee News; The Citizen

Timeline

  1. The incident involving Deputy William Woods and Tyler Merritt occurred at the Amelia Hotel at the Beach in Fernandina Beach, Florida.

  2. Deputy William Woods was arrested and charged with official misconduct and misdemeanor battery. He was also terminated from the Nassau County Sheriff's Office.

  3. The Nassau County Sheriff's Office announced Woods' arrest and termination.

  4. Deputy William Woods pleaded not guilty to his charges, and his case was ongoing.

  5. Tyler Merritt was adjudicated guilty of driving under the influence, while charges of obstructing an officer and careless driving were dismissed or not prosecuted.

Receipts