Full Breakdown
Shooting Incident Involving Illegal Immigrant in South Carolina
2/19/2026, 5:51:18 AM
Incident Overview
On February 10, 2023, a shooting incident occurred in South Carolina involving a deputy from the Charleston County Sheriff's Office (CCSO) and an individual identified as Floriberto Perez-Nieto, a criminal illegal immigrant from Mexico. The incident began shortly after 9 p.m. when deputies responded to a report of shots fired on Johns Island. Despite initial efforts to locate Perez-Nieto, he was not found until approximately 3 a.m. the following day when deputies received another call indicating his return to the area.
Shooting Details
Upon spotting Perez-Nieto's vehicle, deputies attempted to pull him over. In response, Perez-Nieto allegedly fired at one of the deputies, striking him in the chest. Fortunately, the deputy was wearing body armor, which prevented serious injury. Other deputies returned fire, resulting in Perez-Nieto being pronounced dead at a local hospital shortly thereafter. The specific circumstances surrounding how Perez-Nieto obtained the firearm remain unclear.
Background on Floriberto Perez-Nieto
Floriberto Perez-Nieto had a history of illegal immigration, having previously entered the United States without inspection. He was deported on February 20, 2019, but later re-entered the country illegally, constituting a felony offense. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) confirmed these details and emphasized the seriousness of the situation, noting that Perez-Nieto's actions could have resulted in a tragic outcome for the deputy and his family.
Official Statements & Responses
DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin commented on the incident, stating, "This criminal illegal alien illegally obtained a firearm and nearly killed a law enforcement officer. Thankfully, the officer’s body armor saved his life." The CCSO has initiated an internal investigation into the shooting, and the deputies involved have been placed on paid administrative leave pending further review.
Investigation and Next Steps
The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division has been notified and is leading the investigation into the shooting incident. This investigation will seek to clarify the events surrounding the shooting and the circumstances of Perez-Nieto's illegal re-entry into the United States.
Criticism & Opposition
While the incident has drawn attention to issues surrounding illegal immigration and law enforcement, it has also sparked discussions about the effectiveness of current immigration policies and the challenges faced by law enforcement in dealing with illegal immigrants who pose a threat to public safety.
Verbatim Quotes
- “This criminal illegal alien illegally obtained a firearm and nearly killed a law enforcement officer,” — Tricia McLaughlin, DHS Assistant Secretary
This incident highlights the ongoing complexities of immigration enforcement and public safety, raising questions about the implications of illegal immigration on law enforcement operations.
