Full Breakdown
Investigation Launched After Beaufort County Deputy Points Gun at Teens
10/1/2025, 3:46:57 PM
Incident Overview
On September 28, 2025, an off-duty deputy from the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office was suspended without pay following a disturbing incident in the Squiresgate community of Hilton Head Island. The deputy, whose identity has not yet been disclosed, was involved in an altercation with a group of teenagers, during which he drew his firearm and pointed it at them while issuing commands to get on the ground. The incident occurred around 6:47 p.m. and was captured on video that subsequently circulated on social media.
Details of the Encounter
The video shows the deputy, dressed in a sheriff’s office vest and shorts, confronting the teens. He can be heard shouting, “Get on the ground!” and “I am the police!” as he brandishes his weapon. The footage also depicts a physical struggle, with one of the boys attempting to retrieve a backpack from the deputy. During the confrontation, one teen is seen pleading for help, calling out for his mother, while another boy is reportedly kicked and dragged by the deputy.
Investigative Actions
In response to the incident, the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office has initiated an internal investigation, which is being conducted by its Internal Affairs division. This administrative review is expected to take time, as it involves interviewing multiple witnesses. Concurrently, the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) has been requested to conduct a criminal investigation to determine if any laws were violated. The findings from SLED will be forwarded to the 14th Circuit Solicitor’s Office for further review regarding potential criminal charges.
Community Reaction
Residents of the Squiresgate neighborhood have expressed concern over the incident, describing the area as typically quiet but now feeling unsafe. One neighbor noted that the event has prompted some residents to install alarm systems in their homes. The community's unease has been exacerbated by the graphic nature of the video, which has raised questions about police conduct, especially regarding off-duty officers.
Official Statements
The Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office emphasized that deputies are held to a higher standard and must adhere to all policies and procedures, both on and off duty. They stated, “The Internal Affairs Investigation is an administrative investigation that could take some time to complete.” The sheriff's office has also requested that anyone with additional information or video evidence related to the incident come forward to assist in the investigation.
Criticism & Opposition
The incident has drawn criticism from community members and advocates for police accountability. Betty Habersham, a grandmother of one of the minors involved, expressed her distress over the situation, stating, “When I heard the video, that’s when I got like really upset... I want this to get justice.” Families of the teens have reportedly sought legal counsel and are considering pressing charges against the deputy.
What's Next
As investigations by both the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office and SLED continue, the community is awaiting further developments. The identity of the deputy involved is expected to be released at a later date, and the outcomes of the investigations will likely influence discussions on law enforcement practices in the area.
