October 5, 2025

Former Officer Fired for Gun Incident with Teenagers

Q: What happened to Officer William 'Billy' Squires?

Former Master Sergeant William 'Billy' Squires has been fired after being caught on video pointing a gun at three teenagers.

Hilton Head, October 5, 2025

News Summary

William ‘Billy’ Squires, a former Master Sergeant with the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office, has been terminated following a video that showed him pointing a gun at three teenagers. The incident, which occurred during a neighborhood altercation, led to allegations of multiple policy violations and prompted an internal investigation. Squires refused a breathalyzer test and unlawfully attempted to arrest the teens involved. The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division is investigating the case for potential criminal charges, raising concerns over public trust in law enforcement.

Hilton Head – Former Master Sergeant William “Billy” Squires of the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office has been fired after a video surfaced showing him pointing a gun at three teenagers in a neighborhood incident. The firing follows several violations of the agency’s code of conduct and policies. The incident occurred on Sunday, September 28, 2025, at approximately 6:47 p.m.

The Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office received numerous calls concerning a disturbance in the neighborhood. Upon arrival, deputies found Squires at the scene. Reports arose suggesting that he might have been under the influence of alcohol during the altercation. An on-duty officer attempted to administer a breathalyzer test, which Squires refused.

As a direct result of the incident, Squires was suspended without pay and stripped of his sheriff’s office-issued credentials, badge, weapons, and equipment. Internal investigations confirmed multiple policy violations, citing insubordination for his refusal to take the breathalyzer and improper use of force. Squires also attempted to unlawfully arrest the teenagers involved, actions considered unprofessional and damaging to the reputation of the sheriff’s office.

Sheriff P.J. Tanner underscored the importance of public trust and noted the elevated standards that law enforcement officers must uphold, both in and out of uniform. The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) has been asked to investigate the incident for any potential criminal violations. Following the internal investigation, Tanner indicated that further disciplinary action may follow based on SLED’s findings.

The incident attracted significant attention on social media, primarily due to the circulated video of the confrontation. Sheriff Tanner expressed shock upon viewing the footage, deeming Squires’s behavior completely unacceptable.

Potential criminal charges against Squires may arise contingent on the outcome of the SLED review. Notably, Squires had maintained a clean record throughout his nearly two-decade-long service, with only a handful of incidents noted in his personnel file. The Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office is calling on anyone with additional information or video evidence related to the incident to come forward.

Background Context

The firing of Squires serves as a reminder of the responsibilities law enforcement officers carry. Their conduct, both on and off duty, is held to higher standards to ensure public safety and maintain trust within the community. Enforcement agencies strive to uphold their integrity, and actions like those taken by Squires can jeopardize that relationship.

In Summary:

Officer Fired: William “Billy” Squires, Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office, terminated after pointing a gun at teenagers.
Date of Incident: September 28, 2025, approximately 6:47 p.m.
Internal Investigations: Confirmed multiple policy violations.
SLED Investigation: Requested to review for potential criminal charges.
Public Response: Significant attention on social media, with calls for additional evidence.

FAQs

What happened to Officer William “Billy” Squires?

Former Master Sergeant William “Billy” Squires has been fired after being caught on video pointing a gun at three teenagers.

When did the incident occur?

The incident occurred on Sunday, September 28, 2025, at approximately 6:47 p.m.

What were the consequences of the incident?

Following the internal investigation, Squires was suspended without pay and relieved of all sheriff’s office equipment. Further consequences may follow based on the SLED investigation.

Is there an ongoing investigation?

Yes, the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) has been requested to investigate the incident for potential criminal violations.

Key Features of the Incident

Feature	Details
Officer Involved	William “Billy” Squires
Duration of Service	19 years
Date of Incident	September 28, 2025
Location	Hilton Head Neighborhood
Policy Violations	Refusal of breathalyzer, improper use of force, unlawful detainment
Next Steps	Potential criminal investigation by SLED