Beaufort, South Carolina, September 28, 2025
News Summary
The Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office is close to completing an investigation into County Councilman Thomas Reitz for allegedly bringing two cell phones into the county jail during a visit with inmate Skip Hoagland. While evidence is not yet sufficient to press charges, concerns have arisen regarding jail policies and potential systemic issues within the detention center. The case may impact Reitz’s political future and highlight the need for oversight reforms.
Beaufort, South Carolina – The Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office is nearing the completion of its investigation into an incident involving County Councilman Thomas Reitz, who is accused of bringing two cell phones into the county’s detention center. This incident occurred last month during a visit with inmate Skip Hoagland, who had been serving a 15-day sentence for trespassing. While investigators have confirmed they are about 98% complete with their probe, they currently lack sufficient evidence to press charges against Reitz; however, this could change with new developments.
Inmate Hoagland reportedly made 129 calls while incarcerated, discussing his medication needs and offering his support for Reitz’s future political campaign. Sheriff P.J. Tanner expressed concerns about the “disturbing” nature of the situation and suggested that systemic issues may exist within the detention center. A video obtained through a Freedom of Information Act request reportedly shows Reitz inside the jail, allegedly with two phones, which contravenes jail policies prohibiting visitors from bringing prohibited items into the facility.
The incident has raised eyebrows among county council members, particularly as Hoagland gave Reitz a tour of the facility and they took photographs during the visit. Sheriff Tanner has indicated that it is difficult to place blame on the councilman for the use of his phone, given that jail personnel permitted his entry. The South Carolina Department of Corrections has been notified and is conducting its own investigation regarding possible policy violations at the facility.
Over a year ago, the management of the detention facility was assigned to Assistant County Administrator John Robinson, a position that remains unoccupied. Reitz has acknowledged the visit and the seizure of his phones but maintains that he is committed to his responsibilities as a council member despite the ongoing inquiry. Furthermore, Hoagland stated that he and Reitz were not made aware of the prohibition on bringing cell phones into the jail during the visit.
The detention center’s online visitation rules specify that only approved items can be brought into the visitation area, and all visitors are required to pass through security checks. The ongoing investigation has drawn attention from the South Carolina Ethics Commission, which may receive a formal complaint from the sheriff’s office concerning Reitz’s conduct.
Key Details
- County Councilman Thomas Reitz is under investigation for bringing two cell phones into Beaufort County Jail.
- The incident involved a visit with inmate Skip Hoagland, who previously served 15 days for trespassing.
- Investigators are near completion but lack sufficient evidence for charges against Reitz.
- Hoagland made numerous calls from jail, including discussions about supporting Reitz’s campaign.
- Jail policies strictly prohibit visitors from bringing in unauthorized items.
Background Context
The incident has launched inquiries not only into Reitz’s conduct but also into potential systemic issues at the detention center. The South Carolina Department of Corrections is reviewing the facility’s operations and policies as part of this ongoing investigation. Additionally, there are concerns about the oversight of the detention center, given the unfilled management position for over a year.
As the investigation concludes, the findings could have significant implications for Reitz’s political career, as well as highlight necessary reforms within the correctional facility.
FAQ
- What is County Councilman Thomas Reitz accused of? He is accused of bringing two cell phones into the county’s detention center during a visit with an inmate.
- What did the inmate Hoagland do while incarcerated? Hoagland made 129 calls discussing his medication needs and offering support for Reitz’s next campaign.
- Is there any evidence to charge Reitz? Investigators currently do not have sufficient evidence to press charges against Reitz, but this could change with new information.
- What policies were violated during the visit? Jail policies prohibit visitors from bringing unauthorized items into the facility, which includes cell phones.
- What further actions may be taken following the investigation? The South Carolina Ethics Commission may receive a complaint regarding Reitz’s conduct, and the South Carolina Department of Corrections is also conducting its own investigation.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Beaufort County Council Rejects Controversial Development on St. Helena Island
St. Helena Island Community Stands Against Development Proposal
Beaufort County Councilman Under Investigation for Cell Phone Incident
Beaufort County Community Split Over Pine Island Development Proposal
Beaufort Approves $73.1 Million Budget for Community Projects
Additional Resources
- WTOC News
- Island Packet
- Post and Courier
- ABC News 4
- Google Search: Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office investigation
- Wikipedia: Beaufort, South Carolina
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.
