Beaufort, SC, August 30, 2025
News Summary
David Johnathon Shytle Jr., a former South Carolina Probation officer, has been arrested on multiple charges, including assault and misconduct in office. The allegations stem from incidents that occurred over several months, raising concerns about ethical boundaries within the probation system. Shytle has been released on bond while awaiting prosecution. This case highlights serious issues regarding the conduct of law enforcement professionals.
Beaufort, SC – David Johnathon Shytle Jr., a 47-year-old former South Carolina Probation, Parole and Pardon officer, was arrested on August 28 facing serious allegations that include two counts of second-degree assault and battery and five counts of misconduct in office. The charges stem from incidents that reportedly occurred between November 13 and March 14.
The nature of the assault charges remains somewhat ambiguous, as it is currently unclear if they involve a single victim or multiple individuals; the identity of the person involved has been redacted from the arrest warrants. Second-degree assault and battery is classified as a misdemeanor in South Carolina, carrying a maximum penalty of three years in jail, a fine that could reach up to $2,500, or both.
In regard to the charges of misconduct in office, Shytle is accused of engaging in an inappropriate relationship with a parolee while he was acting in his official capacity. Allegations include sending inappropriate text messages and images to the individual under supervision. The investigation into Shytle’s conduct was conducted by the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) and utilized surveillance video along with witness statements to substantiate the claims.
After being arrested, Shytle was booked into the Beaufort County Detention Center but he has since been released on a personal recognizance bond of $5,000. A background check conducted by SLED indicated that Shytle did not have any prior criminal charges in South Carolina.
This case will be prosecuted by the 14th Circuit Solicitor’s Office. Given the nature of the allegations, it is likely to draw significant attention as it unfolds.
The misconduct charges against an officer of the law highlight challenges faced within the probation and parole system, particularly concerning the relationships officers may develop with those they oversee.
Key Facts
- Arrestee: David Johnathon Shytle Jr.
- Age: 47
- Position: Former South Carolina Probation, Parole and Pardon Officer
- Date of Arrest: August 28
- Charges: Two counts of second-degree assault and battery, five counts of misconduct in office
- Incident Timeline: Between November 13 and March 14
- Bail: $5,000 personal recognizance bond
- Prosecution: 14th Circuit Solicitor’s Office
Background Context
This incident raises concerns regarding the integrity of the justice system, particularly the conduct of those who work within it. It serves as a reminder of the potential repercussions when professional boundaries are crossed. The role of probation and parole officers is critical in the criminal justice system, and allegations such as these can erode public trust and raise questions about the oversight and accountability mechanisms currently in place.
FAQ Section
What charges is David Johnathon Shytle Jr. facing?
He faces two counts of second-degree assault and battery and five counts of misconduct in office.
What is the maximum penalty for the charges against Shytle?
The maximum penalty for second-degree assault and battery is three years in jail, a fine of up to $2,500, or both.
When did the incidents related to the charges occur?
The alleged incidents occurred between November 13 and March 14.
Who will prosecute the case?
The case will be prosecuted by the 14th Circuit Solicitor’s Office.
Summary Chart of Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Arrestee | David Johnathon Shytle Jr. |
| Age | 47 |
| Position | Former S.C. Probation, Parole and Pardon Officer |
| Date of Arrest | August 28 |
| Charges | 2 counts of assault and battery, 5 counts of misconduct |
| Incident Timeline | November 13 to March 14 |
| Bail | $5,000 personal recognizance bond |
| Prosecution | 14th Circuit Solicitor’s Office |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Probation Officer Charged with Assault and Misconduct in Beaufort
Karen Read Acquitted of Murder Charges in Officer’s Death
Additional Resources
- Island Packet: Weather News
- Wikipedia: Hurricane
- Your Island News: Beaufort Winter Weather
- Google Search: Beaufort County Winter Weather
- Post and Courier: Hurricane Evacuation Test
- Google Scholar: Hurricane Evacuations South Carolina
- Island Packet: Weather News Update
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Hurricane
- Island Packet: Weather Report
- Google News: Beaufort County Weather
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.
