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 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Additional Resources
- WTOC: Beaufort Co. Sheriff’s Office Deputy Fired
- Wikipedia: Law Enforcement in the United States
- Live 5 News: Deputy Fired After Multiple Policy Violations
- Google Search: Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office
- WJCL: Hilton Head Suspended Deputy Update
- Google Scholar: Law Enforcement Conduct
- WTOC: Deputy Fired for Breaking Several Policies
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Law Enforcement
- ABC News 4: Beaufort County Deputy Suspended
- Google News: Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office
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.
