Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, September 30, 2025
News Summary
A Beaufort County deputy has been suspended without pay after a video surfaced showing him drawing a gun on a group of boys in Hilton Head Island. The incident, which occurred in the deputy’s neighborhood, has prompted investigations by both the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office and the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division. The community is seeking transparency regarding the circumstances leading to this confrontation as the deputy’s identity remains undisclosed.
Hilton Head Island, South Carolina – A Beaufort County deputy has been suspended without pay following a concerning incident on Hilton Head Island. The suspension came shortly after a video surfaced online showing the deputy drawing a gun on a group of boys. The incident happened just after 6:45 p.m. on Sunday in the deputy’s neighborhood.
The Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office labeled the event an “incident” without initially providing further details. However, the 14th Circuit Solicitor’s Office clarified that the deputy indeed drew his firearm on the boys. As of now, the identity of the deputy has not been publicly released.
A command staff member at the scene relieved the deputy of his credentials, badge, issued weapons, and equipment. An internal affairs investigation by the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office is underway, which officials stated could take “some time” due to the requirement for multiple interviews. Additionally, the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) has been called in to investigate for possible criminal violations. The sheriff’s office noted that the SLED investigation would run parallel to the internal review.
The deputy was recorded on video approaching the boys while drawing his gun and ordering them to “get on the ground.” Neighbors reported that the deputy was called to the scene by someone, but the specific reason for this call remains unclear. The video depicts a tense confrontation where the deputy struggles with the boys for a backpack and threatens to shoot, prompting the boys to shout for someone to call the police. In response, the deputy asserted, “I am the police.” During the altercation, the deputy was seen pulling one boy by his shirt and pointing a gun at several teenagers.
The sheriff’s office has requested anyone with additional information or video evidence related to the incident to contact them. Both the Internal Affairs Department and SLED are handling the investigation, with any potential criminal charges to be determined by the Regional Public Integrity Unit.
Key Details of the Incident
- Location: Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
- Time of Incident: After 6:45 p.m. on a Sunday
- Investigation: Internal Affairs and SLED
- Status: Deputy suspended without pay
Background Context
This incident has raised questions about law enforcement protocols and the appropriate use of firearms in non-life-threatening situations. The sheriff’s office has not disclosed details leading to the deputy’s response, and local community members are awaiting further information as investigations unfold. As the public seeks transparency, it highlights the need for accountability within law enforcement agencies.
FAQ Section
What happened to the Beaufort County deputy on Hilton Head Island?
A Beaufort County deputy was suspended without pay after drawing a gun on a group of boys in his neighborhood.
What is the status of the investigation?
An internal affairs investigation by the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office is underway, alongside a separate investigation by the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED). This could take some time.
Why did the deputy draw his weapon?
The reason for the deputy drawing his firearm is unclear, although neighbors mentioned he was called to the scene by someone.
Has the deputy’s identity been released?
No, the identity of the deputy has not been publicly released as of now.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Incident Type | Suspension of Deputy |
| Location | Hilton Head Island, South Carolina |
| Involved Parties | Beaufort County Deputy and group of boys |
| Current Status | Deputy suspended without pay |
| Investigating Bodies | Internal Affairs and SLED |
| Public Call for Information | Sheriff’s office requested additional evidence |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Additional Resources
- WJCL: Hilton Head Island Deputy Suspended
- ABC News 4: Beaufort County Deputy Suspended
- WTOC: Beaufort Co. Sheriff’s Office Deputy Suspended
- Island Packet: Beaufort County Deputy Suspended
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Law Enforcement
- Google News: Beaufort County deputy suspended
Author: STAFF HERE HILTON HEAD
The HILTON HEAD STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHiltonHead.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Hilton Head Island, Beaufort County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the RBC Heritage golf tournament, Hilton Head Island Wine & Food Festival, and the Gullah Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce and Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, plus leading businesses in tourism and hospitality that power the local economy such as Sea Pines Resort and Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
