Hilton Head Island, SC, October 1, 2025
News Summary
A video posted online shows an off-duty Beaufort County sheriff’s deputy drawing his weapon on a group of teenagers in a Hilton Head Island neighborhood. The deputy has been suspended without pay pending an investigation by the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division. Residents express concern for safety after the incident, which reportedly included threats and allegations of possible intoxication. As investigations proceed, legal action may follow from the families of the involved teens.
Hilton Head Island, SC – A video circulating on social media has led to the suspension of an off-duty Beaufort County sheriff’s deputy after he drew his firearm on a group of teenagers in his neighborhood. The incident occurred on Sunday, September 28, 2025, at approximately 6:47 p.m. in the Squiresgate community, where the deputy resides.
According to reports, Beaufort County sheriff’s deputies were alerted to a disturbance in the area. The video captures the deputy approaching a group of teenagers, drawing his firearm, and ordering them to get on the ground. Witness accounts indicate that during the confrontation, a physical altercation unfolded, with one teenager pushing the deputy off another. The footage also shows the deputy reportedly threatening to shoot one of the teens and stating that he was “the police.”
The Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO) acted quickly by suspending the deputy without pay soon after the incident. Additionally, the deputy has been stripped of all credentials, badge, and sheriff’s office-issued weapons and equipment. The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) is currently conducting an investigation to determine if any criminal violations occurred during the incident.
Once SLED completes its investigation, the Regional Public Integrity Unit of the 14th Circuit Solicitor’s Office will review the case to assess whether any criminal charges will be pursued against the deputy. Following the incidents, residents in the normally quiet Squiresgate community expressed feelings of unease and some have opted to install alarm systems due to heightened concerns for their safety.
Reports have surfaced indicating that the deputy may have been intoxicated at the time of the incident; however, this claim has not yet been confirmed by the BCSO. Videos captured in the aftermath show one of the teenagers in a detained position while another individual holds him down. Families of the involved teens are considering taking legal action and have consulted an attorney regarding the situation.
Residents reported that police remained at the scene until at least 10:00 p.m. after the initial incident, and the BCSO has called for anyone with additional information or videos related to the event to contact Lieutenant Draisen via phone or email. The sheriff’s office emphasized that deputies must follow department policies and procedures whether they are on duty or off duty.
As the investigation continues, solicitors are expecting more videos to emerge that could shed further light on the circumstances leading to the altercation. This ongoing situation has sparked significant concern within the Hilton Head Island community, which is traditionally known for its tranquility.
Background
Hilton Head Island is a well-known resort town, typically recognized for its peaceful environment and family-friendly atmosphere. Incidents involving law enforcement are rare, and residents are now grappling with the implications of such a confrontation involving a deputy. The Squiresgate community, like many others in the area, has historically prided itself on safety and security, making this occurrence particularly alarming for its residents.
FAQs
What incident led to the suspension of the Beaufort County deputy?
An off-duty Beaufort County sheriff’s deputy drew his firearm on a group of teenagers in his Hilton Head Island neighborhood.
What action was taken against the deputy?
The Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office suspended the deputy without pay and stripped him of all credentials, badge, and sheriff’s office-issued weapons and equipment.
What is being done about the incident?
The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) is investigating the incident for possible criminal violations.
How are residents responding to the situation?
Residents describe the neighborhood as feeling uneasy and some have even installed alarm systems due to safety concerns.
Are there any reports regarding the deputy’s behavior during the incident?
There are allegations that the deputy was intoxicated at the time of the incident, but this has not been confirmed by the BCSO.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Date | September 28, 2025 |
| Location | Squiresgate community, Hilton Head Island |
| Action Taken | Deputy suspended without pay; credentials and badge stripped |
| Investigation | Conducted by SLED for possible criminal violations |
| Community Response | Residents feeling uneasy; some installing alarm systems |
| Allegations | Deputy may have been intoxicated |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Off-duty Deputy Suspended After Gun Incident with Teens
Off-Duty Deputy Suspended After Incident with Teens
Off-Duty Deputy Suspended After Confrontation with Teens
Beaufort Recognized as Most Charming Small City in SC
Beaufort County Deputy Suspended After Disturbing Incident
Off-Duty Deputy Suspended After Gun Incident with Teens
Off-Duty Deputy Suspended After Disturbance in Hilton Head
Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office Investigates Deputy Incident
Beaufort County Deputy Suspended for Drawing Weapon on Boys
Suspended Beaufort County Deputy Draws Gun on Boys in Hilton Head
Additional Resources
- Island Packet
- Wikipedia: Hilton Head Island
- WJCL
- Google Search: Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office incident
- ABC News 4
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Safety
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.
