Hilton Head Island, September 30, 2025
News Summary
An internal investigation is underway by the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office after an off-duty deputy pointed a gun at three teenagers on Hilton Head Island. The deputy has been suspended without pay, and both administrative and criminal investigations are being conducted. The incident has raised concerns about law enforcement conduct during off-duty interactions and has quickly gained attention on social media.
Hilton Head Island – The Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office is currently conducting an internal investigation following a viral video incident involving an off-duty deputy who pointed a gun at three teenagers on Hilton Head Island. The incident unfolded around 6:47 p.m. on Sunday, prompting calls to law enforcement about a disturbance in the community where the deputy resides.
In response to the incident, the off-duty deputy was suspended without pay. A command staff member who arrived at the scene relieved the deputy of his credentials, badge, and sheriff’s office-issued weapons and equipment, emphasizing the office’s commitment to holding deputies to a higher standard of behavior, both on and off duty.
The internal affairs investigation is classified as administrative and is expected to take some time as it involves interviewing multiple individuals. Additionally, the incident has drawn the attention of the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED), which has been requested to investigate for any potential criminal violations. Both the administrative and SLED investigations will run concurrently, in accordance with standards set by the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA).
Footage of the incident has circulated widely across social media. The video shows the off-duty deputy pointing his gun at the teenagers and briefly putting it away before drawing it again, as the teenagers allegedly failed to comply with his commands to get on the ground. At one point, the deputy identified himself as law enforcement when the teenagers pleaded for someone to call the police.
Interactions captured in the video also reveal the deputy’s struggle with one of the teenagers over a backpack. An alarming moment occurs when one teenager is held down while claiming that someone thought they had a gun. This accusation led to heightened concern among those present during the encounter.
The identity of the deputy involved will be released by the sheriff’s office at a later date. As investigations are ongoing, the sheriff’s office has announced that no further comments will be provided at this time. Meanwhile, the public is encouraged to share any additional information or videos related to the case with Internal Affairs, which can be contacted at 843-255-3404.
Background Context
The incident has sparked discussions about the conduct of law enforcement officers during off-duty interactions with the public. The Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office has stated its commitment to maintaining professional standards and ensuring transparent handling of the situation. Similar controversies and incidents across the nation have raised awareness about the appropriate use of force and police accountability. Local and state officials are monitoring the developments closely to ascertain the implications for community relations and policing protocols moving forward.
FAQ
What triggered the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office investigation?
The Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office is conducting an internal investigation following an incident involving an off-duty deputy pointing a gun at three teenagers on Hilton Head Island.
What actions were taken against the deputy involved?
The involved off-duty deputy was suspended without pay shortly after the incident and relieved of his credentials, badge, and sheriff’s office-issued weapons and equipment.
Will there be any criminal investigations regarding the incident?
Yes, the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) has been requested to investigate the incident for potential criminal violations.
How can the public provide information related to the case?
The public is invited to share any helpful information or videos related to the case with Internal Affairs by contacting them at 843-255-3404.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Incident Time | 6:47 p.m. on Sunday |
| Location | Hilton Head Island |
| Involved Parties | Off-duty deputy, three teenagers |
| Actions Taken | Deputy suspended without pay; relieved of equipment |
| Investigating Bodies | SLED, Internal Affairs |
| Public Contact | Internal Affairs at 843-255-3404 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Beaufort County Deputy Suspended for Drawing Weapon on Boys
Deputy Suspended After Gun Incident with Teenagers
Additional Resources
- ABC News 4
- Live 5 News
- WTOC
- Island Packet
- Wikipedia: Police Conduct
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Police Force
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.
