Master Sgt. Billy Squires of the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO) is under investigation after allegedly pointing a gun at two teenagers during an incident on Hilton Head Island.[VIDEO]

 

The Sheriff’s Office confirmed the incident occurred Sunday evening and issued an official press release addressing the matter. According to the statement, an Internal Affairs Investigation has been launched, while the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) has been asked to conduct a parallel review to determine whether any criminal violations took place.

BCSO reported that the off-duty deputy involved has been suspended without pay. His credentials, badge, department-issued firearm, and other equipment were taken away by a Command Staff member who responded to the disturbance.

“Deputies are held to a higher standard, as they must abide by all BCSO policies and procedures, both on and off duty,” the release stated. Officials added that the internal review could take time, as several people will need to be interviewed.

The investigation remains ongoing.