Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, October 1, 2025
News Summary
An off-duty deputy with the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office has been suspended following an alarming incident where he drew his firearm on three 14-year-old boys in a Hilton Head Island neighborhood. Video footage shows the deputy confronting the boys after a neighbor raised concerns. As investigations by SLED and the Sheriff’s Office commence, community reactions range from support for the deputy to outrage over his use of force against minors. Families of the teenagers are also considering legal action amidst growing security concerns in the area.
Hilton Head Island, South Carolina — An off-duty deputy with the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office has been suspended without pay following an incident in which he drew his firearm on three 14-year-old boys in a neighborhood on Hilton Head Island. The deputy has been relieved of his badge, weapons, and all department-issued equipment while the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) investigates the matter for possible criminal violations.
The incident took place on Sunday evening, September 28, 2025, around 6:47 p.m., in the Squiresgate community, an area usually described by residents as a quiet and safe environment. According to video footage posted on social media, the deputy confronted the group of teenagers and ordered them to the ground while aiming his weapon at them. Eyewitnesses reported that the altercation ensued after a resident alerted the deputy to concerns about the boys’ behavior.
During the confrontation, it was reported that one of the teens pleaded for someone to call the police, to which the deputy responded, asserting his authority by saying he was the police. Additional reports indicate that a physical struggle occurred when the deputy attempted to seize a backpack from one of the boys, which led him to again point his firearm at the group. Although allegations surfaced during the incident about one of the teens possibly being armed, police did not find any firearms in their possession.
In response to the incident, the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office has initiated an internal administrative investigation into the deputy’s conduct. Additionally, the 14th Circuit Solicitor’s Office’s Public Integrity Unit will review the case after SLED concludes its investigation to determine if any criminal charges are warranted. The sheriff’s office emphasized that deputies are held to a higher standard of conduct while off-duty.
The deputy’s identity is currently withheld and will be released at a later date. Following the incident, a sheriff’s lieutenant confiscated the deputy’s vest and service weapon at the scene. Reactions within the Squiresgate neighborhood have been varied. While some residents support the deputy’s actions citing prior issues with teens in the area, others have condemned the level of force used against minors. Local tensions have been building due to recent disturbances and theft complaints involving youths.
The broader community is reacting to the incident with concerns about safety, as many residents have expressed feeling uneasy in the wake of the altercation. Some neighbors have reportedly begun installing alarm systems for added security. Furthermore, families of the involved teenagers are considering potential legal action against the deputy.
The sheriff’s office has requested that anyone with additional information or video evidence related to the incident come forward to assist in the ongoing investigations. Early reports indicated that law enforcement initially responded to the teens and their families with hostility, while interacting more amicably with neighbors.
Ongoing Investigations
Two simultaneous investigations are currently being conducted: an internal investigation by the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office into the deputy’s conduct and a criminal investigation by SLED. Outcomes from these investigations could lead to significant legal and disciplinary actions depending on the findings.
Community Concerns
The Squiresgate neighborhood, previously regarded as a peaceful area, is now grappling with feelings of insecurity following the deputy’s actions. Increased dialogue regarding youth behavior has emerged, with residents discussing previous incidents that they attribute to minors in the area. Tensions among neighbors highlight the fine line between maintaining community safety and ensuring appropriate conduct by law enforcement officials.
Conclusion
This incident underscores the need for vigilance and accountability within law enforcement agencies, particularly in interactions involving minors. As investigations proceed, community members are left to reconcile their perceptions of safety and trust in local law enforcement.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened with the off-duty Beaufort County deputy?
An off-duty deputy has been suspended without pay after drawing a gun on three 14-year-old boys in a Hilton Head Island neighborhood.
Where did the incident occur?
The incident occurred in the Squiresgate community on Hilton Head Island.
What led to the deputy drawing his weapon?
Another resident called the deputy to express concerns regarding the teens’ behavior, which prompted the confrontation.
Are there ongoing investigations regarding the incident?
Yes, SLED is conducting a criminal investigation, while the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office is managing its own internal investigation.
What are the community’s reactions to the incident?
Reactions are mixed; some residents support the deputy’s actions due to past issues with teens, while others criticize the excessive use of force against minors.
Is there a potential for legal action from the families of the involved teens?
Yes, families of the involved teens are contemplating potential legal action against the deputy.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Additional Resources
- WTOC: Beaufort Co. Sheriff’s Office Deputy Suspended
- Wikipedia: Beaufort County, South Carolina
- WJCL: Hilton Head Island Deputy Suspended
- Google Search: Beaufort County sheriff
- Island Packet: Beaufort County Deputy Suspended
- Google Scholar: Beaufort County deputy suspended
- WYFF4: Beaufort County Deputy Suspended with Gun on Teens
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Law Enforcement
- Post and Courier: Beaufort County Deputy Suspended
- Google News: Beaufort County deputy incident
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.
