Hilton Head, October 19, 2025
News Summary
A lawsuit has been filed against former Beaufort County Deputy William P. Squires after he allegedly assaulted teenagers while intoxicated on Hilton Head Island. The incident, captured on video, showed Squires threatening teens with a gun. He was terminated shortly after the incident, and the legal action includes accusations of unreasonable search and seizure, false imprisonment, and assault. The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division is conducting a criminal investigation.
Hilton Head Island, South Carolina – A lawsuit has been filed against former Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office Deputy William P. Squires after he allegedly assaulted teenagers while intoxicated on Hilton Head Island. The incident occurred on September 28, 2025, and was captured on video, showing Squires threatening the teenagers with a gun.
Squires was terminated from his position on October 3, 2025, by Beaufort County Sheriff P.J. Tanner, who expressed being “appalled” by the incident. Prior to his firing, Squires was suspended, relieved of his duties, badge, and issued weapons following the altercation.
The lawsuit was filed by Laquesha Habersham, the mother of one of the affected teenagers, and describes the encounter as a “brazen and unlawful incident” and “a shocking abuse of power.” According to court documents, Squires approached a group of three teenage boys, was “visibly intoxicated,” and “aggressively grabbed” one of the boys, dragging him to the ground.
During the altercation, multiple neighborhood residents called 911, and it was later confirmed by the sheriff’s office that the boy who was dragged did not commit any criminal acts. Squires allegedly refused to submit to a sobriety test, which contributed to his suspension from the sheriff’s office. The lawsuit claims Squires was operating his work vehicle while intoxicated and using his service weapon during the encounter with the teenagers.
At least one adolescent was handcuffed during the altercation, and unidentified neighbors allegedly assisted Squires in restraining the teens. The legal filing includes accusations against Squires for violating unreasonable search and seizure protections, false imprisonment, assault, and battery. The complaint asserts that Squires and the sheriff’s office demonstrated negligence and engaged in multiple violations of department policies.
The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) is conducting an ongoing criminal investigation into Squires’ actions during the incident. The family is seeking damages and requesting a jury trial in the lawsuit against Squires, the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office, and five unidentified individuals involved in the altercation.
Key Details of the Case
| Incident Date | September 28, 2025 |
|---|---|
| Firing Date | October 3, 2025 |
| Lawsuit Filed By | Laquesha Habersham |
| Charges Against Squires | Violation of unreasonable search and seizure, false imprisonment, assault, and battery. |
| Ongoing Investigation | South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) |
| Family’s Legal Request | Damages and jury trial |
Background Context
The Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office has faced intense scrutiny following this incident, which involved a law enforcement official allegedly using excessive force against minors. The deputy’s actions, along with the alleged connivance of unidentified individuals and his apparent intoxication, raise serious questions about accountability and the appropriate conduct of officers. The repercussions of this incident could lead to far-reaching implications for the department and the community it serves.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What incident led to the lawsuit against William P. Squires?
A lawsuit has been filed against former Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office Deputy William P. Squires after he allegedly assaulted teenagers while intoxicated on Hilton Head Island.
When did the incident occur?
The incident occurred on September 28, 2025.
What actions did Squires take during the altercation?
Squires approached a group of three teenage boys, was “visibly intoxicated,” and “aggressively grabbed” one of the boys, dragging him to the ground.
What has been the response from the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office?
Squires was fired from his position on October 3, 2025, by Beaufort County Sheriff P.J. Tanner, who expressed being “appalled” by the incident.
What are the allegations in the lawsuit?
The legal filing includes accusations against Squires for violating unreasonable search and seizure protections, false imprisonment, assault, and battery.
What is the current status of the investigation?
The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) is conducting an ongoing criminal investigation into Squires’ actions during the incident.
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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.
