Hilton Head Island, October 4, 2025
News Summary
Master Sgt. William “Billy” Squires of the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office was terminated following an incident where he pointed a firearm at teenagers while off duty. The event, which occurred in his Hilton Head Island neighborhood, was captured on video, prompting community outrage and an internal investigation. Sheriff P.J. Tanner condemned the actions, noting multiple policy violations, including unprofessional conduct and failure to activate his body camera. Further investigations by the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division are underway to determine potential criminal charges.
Hilton Head Island
A Beaufort County deputy has been fired after a disturbing incident in which he pointed a gun at a group of teenagers while off duty. Master Sgt. William “Billy” Squires, who served nearly 20 years at the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office, was dismissed on October 3, 2025, following the incident that took place on September 28, 2025.
The events unfolded in Squires’ Hilton Head Island neighborhood and have sparked significant community outrage, raising pressing questions regarding police conduct and public safety. The incident was captured on video, which circulated widely on social media, showing Squires brandishing his gun at the teenagers. Following the alarming reports, Sheriff P.J. Tanner expressed his profound dismay upon viewing the video and promptly ordered an internal investigation.
Initially, Squires was placed on unpaid leave after the Sheriff’s Office was notified of the incident. Concerned about the possibility of alcohol being involved, Tanner mandated that Squires take a breathalyzer test, which Squires refused. Subsequently, Squires acknowledged that he had consumed alcohol after refusing to comply with the test, resulting in his termination for insubordination and other related policy violations.
Policy Violations and Internal Investigation
Despite having a relatively clean personnel record—characterized by only minor incidents and a previous unfounded internal investigation in 2016—Squires’ actions during the recent incident were deemed serious violations. Sheriff Tanner identified multiple breaches of policy, including:
- Engaging in unprofessional conduct.
- Attempting an unlawful arrest during a neighborhood dispute without a clear threat of bodily injury.
- Failure to follow necessary communication protocols, including not notifying dispatch or recusing himself from the situation.
- Not activating his body camera while acting in his capacity as a deputy.
- Using a firearm improperly, violating the sheriff’s office use of force policy.
Ongoing Investigations and Further Actions
The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) is conducting an ongoing investigation to determine if any criminal charges will be warranted as a result of Squires’ actions. Sheriff Tanner has communicated that any findings regarding potential criminal charges will be forwarded to the 14th Circuit Solicitor’s Office by the end of the upcoming week.
Furthermore, the Sheriff’s Office has initiated a request for the revocation of Squires’ law enforcement certification from the South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy. This action underscores the commitment of the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office to uphold integrity and accountability within their ranks.
Community Response and Future Implications
In response to this situation, Sheriff Tanner issued a community message, highlighting the importance of maintaining respect for law enforcement while also addressing misconduct decisively. He remarked that Squires’ actions were unbecoming of an officer and adversely affected the reputation of the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office.
This troubling incident serves as a critical reminder of the responsibilities held by law enforcement officials and the standards expected from those who serve the community.
Frequently Asked Questions
What incident led to the firing of Master Sgt. William “Billy” Squires?
The incident involved him pointing a department-issued weapon at a group of teenagers in his Hilton Head Island neighborhood.
When was Master Sgt. Squires fired?
Squires was fired on October 3, 2025, following an internal investigation.
What policies did Squires violate according to Sheriff Tanner?
Squires violated multiple policies, including engaging in unprofessional conduct, attempting an unlawful arrest, failing to comply with communication protocols, not activating his body camera, and misusing a firearm.
What actions has the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division taken?
The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) is conducting an ongoing investigation into possible criminal charges related to the incident.
What steps has the Sheriff’s Office taken regarding Squires’ law enforcement certification?
The Sheriff’s Office has requested the revocation of Squires’ law enforcement certification from the South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Incident Date | September 28, 2025 |
| Firing Date | October 3, 2025 |
| Deputy Involved | Master Sgt. William “Billy” Squires |
| Length of Service | Nearly 20 years |
| Community Response | Widespread outrage and concerns about police conduct |
| Investigation Authority | South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) |
| Policy Violations | Unprofessional conduct, unlawful arrest attempt, failure to activate body camera, misuse of firearm |
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Additional Resources
- Island Packet
- WJCL
- ABC News 4
- Google Search: Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office
- Wikipedia: Law enforcement in the United States
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.
