Colleton County, August 25, 2025
News Summary
Two suspects, Justin Bessinger and Emily Higgins, have been arrested in Colleton County following a police chase initiated during a traffic stop for speeding. The pair was wanted for multiple thefts across Colleton and Beaufort Counties. After fleeing in a stolen vehicle, the chase ended on Highway 21 when their car caught fire. Law enforcement, including K9 units, quickly apprehended both individuals. The ongoing theft issues in the region raise concerns among local residents and emphasize the need for community vigilance.
Colleton County: Two Suspects Arrested Following Chase and Manhunt
Two suspects, Justin Bessinger (28) and Emily Higgins (29), have been arrested in Colleton County after a police chase that stemmed from a traffic stop initiated by the Yemassee Police for speeding. Both individuals were wanted for a series of thefts in Colleton and Beaufort Counties, with incidents dating back to August 13.
The situation escalated when the suspects fled the traffic stop in a stolen vehicle, prompting a chase that led officers into Colleton County. Law enforcement pursued the vehicle until it stalled and subsequently caught fire on Highway 21 near I-95. Following the vehicle’s immobilization, both suspects abandoned the car and attempted to flee on foot.
Law enforcement assets, including K9 units, were deployed to the scene. Bessinger, who was driving the vehicle, was apprehended swiftly by K9 Rio. Higgins was captured shortly after by K9 Deuce. As of now, both suspects are in custody at the Colleton County Sheriff’s Office.
Details of Criminal Activity
The thefts for which Bessinger and Higgins are wanted are believed to be part of a larger pattern of criminal behavior that has persisted since early August. Sgt. Laura Rutland provided insights into the couple’s alleged criminal activities but detailed information on the specific theft incidents remains limited.
Law Enforcement’s Response
The quick response from the Yemassee Police and the coordinated efforts with K9 units were pivotal in capturing the suspects. The chase underscores the ongoing issues of vehicle theft and related crimes in the region, prompting discussions on law enforcement strategies moving forward.
Community Impact
The thefts attributed to Bessinger and Higgins have caused concern among local residents in both Colleton and Beaufort Counties. Community members have expressed their unease regarding thefts and are seeking increased police presence and preventative measures. Local authorities are emphasizing the importance of collective community vigilance and cooperation with law enforcement to combat such criminal activities.
Background Context
Bessinger and Higgins are not new to the law enforcement radar, as their records reflect previous encounters with police. The ongoing investigation into their activities highlights the broader challenges faced by law enforcement in addressing theft and crimes associated with motor vehicles.
As the legal process unfolds for both suspects, authorities are urging community members to report any suspicious activities and remain vigilant. Both suspects currently await proceedings that could shed more light on their criminal affiliations and the extent of their recent activities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What were Justin Bessinger and Emily Higgins arrested for?
They were arrested for thefts in Colleton and Beaufort Counties, as well as for leading police on a chase in a stolen vehicle.
When did the theft incidents occur?
The thefts are believed to have been occurring since August 13.
How were the suspects apprehended?
After fleeing from their stolen vehicle, which later caught fire, Bessinger was apprehended by K9 Rio, and Higgins was caught by K9 Deuce shortly after.
Where are the suspects currently held?
Both suspects are currently in custody at the Colleton County Sheriff’s Office.
What should residents do to prevent theft in their area?
Residents are encouraged to report any suspicious activity to the authorities and remain vigilant to help combat local theft issues.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Suspects | Justin Bessinger (28) and Emily Higgins (29) |
| Charges | Theft in Colleton and Beaufort Counties |
| Incidents Period | Since August 13 |
| Chase Start | Traffic stop for speeding on Highway 17A |
| Chase End | Vehicle stalled and caught fire on Highway 21 near I-95 |
| Arresting Officers | K9 units Rio and Deuce |
| Current Custody | Colleton County Sheriff’s Office |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Live 5 News: Two Suspects Arrested Following Chase
- ABC News 4: Two Brothers Arrested in Colleton County
- WTOC: Pursuit Ends in Chatham County Crash
- Post and Courier: Police Nab Two Robbery Suspects in Walterboro
- MSN: Colleton County Deputies Search for Persons of Interest
- Wikipedia: Theft
- Google Search: Colleton County Theft News
- Google Scholar: Theft and Law Enforcement
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Theft
- Google News: Colleton County Theft
Author: STAFF HERE BEAUFORT
The HERE Beaufort Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Beaufort community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background: Local Roots in Beaufort : Our team includes lifelong Beaufort residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent sale of the historic Crofts Block Building, Beaufort’s equestrian heritage, and growth in local tech and education sectors (e.g., BeaufortTechnical College programs). Collective Experience: With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Beaufort Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality: Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
