Beaufort, August 30, 2025
News Summary
David Johnathon Shytle, a Beaufort probation officer, faces multiple charges including Assault & Battery and Misconduct in Office following allegations of inappropriate conduct with his parolees. The incidents involved nonconsensual actions and inappropriate communication, leading to concerns about the ethical standards of probation officers. He was arrested and released on bond as legal proceedings begin.
Beaufort, South Carolina – Probation Officer Charged with Assault and Misconduct
David Johnathon Shytle, Jr., a 47-year-old probation officer in Beaufort, South Carolina, faces serious legal charges after being indicted on two counts of Assault & Battery and five counts of Misconduct in Office. The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division filed the charges following disturbing allegations that Shytle engaged in inappropriate behavior with individuals under his supervision.
The incidents reportedly occurred while Shytle was employed by the South Carolina Department of Probation, Parole, and Pardon Services. One of the allegations includes instances of “nonconsensual touching” of the private parts of a victim. Specific details mention that the first incident took place on March 14, 2025, with another incident occurring between November 13, 2024, and March 7, 2025.
Shytle’s alleged misconduct involves multiple inappropriate relationships with parolees under his supervision. Arrest documents indicate that he sent “inappropriate text messages and images” to one of these parolees. According to the charges, there are accusations of two specific instances where Shytle is said to have committed acts of nonconsensual touching and licking of a victim’s private parts.
The identity of the victim in these incidents has been redacted in all documentation, leaving it uncertain whether the victim was a parolee or if multiple individuals were affected. Following his arrest, Shytle was booked into the Beaufort County Detention Center but was released shortly thereafter on August 28, 2025, after posting a $45,000 personal recognizance bond.
As the legal proceedings unfold, it remains clear that South Carolina law does not provide specific sentencing guidelines for misconduct in office, allowing judges discretion in determining penalties. Offenses related to second-degree assault and battery, which encompasses such nonconsensual actions, are classified as misdemeanors with potential penalties including a fine of up to $2,500 and up to three years of imprisonment.
The 14th Circuit Solicitor’s Office will prosecute this case, emphasizing the seriousness of the charges against Shytle, whose position as a probation officer requires adherence to strict ethical and legal standards. The gravity of the allegations has raised concerns within the community regarding the integrity of the probation system and the protection of vulnerable individuals.
Background Information
The case highlights the significant responsibilities held by probation officers in overseeing individuals on parole and the essential need for maintaining appropriate boundaries in their professional relationships. Misconduct in office by public officials erodes trust within communities and poses severe implications for the justice system. Such allegations have prompted a regional discussion on the importance of oversight and training for law enforcement and probation personnel in South Carolina and beyond.
FAQ
What are the charges against David Johnathon Shytle, Jr.?
Shytle has been charged with two counts of Assault & Battery and five counts of Misconduct in Office.
When did the incidents occur?
The first incident occurred on March 14, 2025, with another incident taking place between November 13, 2024, and March 7, 2025.
What actions did Shytle allegedly take?
Shytle is accused of nonconsensual touching, licking of a victim’s private parts, and sending inappropriate messages to a parolee.
What are the potential penalties for the charges?
The charges could result in a maximum of $2,500 in fines and up to three years in prison for second-degree assault and battery.
Who is prosecuting the case?
The case will be prosecuted by the 14th Circuit Solicitor’s Office.
Key Features of the Case
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Defendant | David Johnathon Shytle, Jr., 47 years old |
| Location | Beaufort, South Carolina |
| Charges | 2 counts of Assault & Battery, 5 counts of Misconduct in Office |
| Incident Dates | March 14, 2025, & November 13, 2024 – March 7, 2025 |
| Allegations | Nonconsensual touching, inappropriate communication with parolees |
| Release | August 28, 2025, on $45,000 bond |
| Potential Penalties | Up to $2,500 fine and up to 3 years in prison |
| Prosecutor | 14th Circuit Solicitor’s Office |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Karen Read Acquitted of Murder Charges in Officer’s Death
Additional Resources
- Island Packet: Beaufort Probation Officer Charged
- ABC News 4: Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office Seeks Help
- WSAV: Beaufort Man Wanted on Assault Charges
- Wikipedia: Assault
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Battery (law)
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.
