Safety
On Tuesday, September 8, 2020, Palmetto Dunes Security responded to numerous calls for service regarding vehicles that were unlawfully entered. The incidents were reported on Armada, Brigantine, Long Boat, and Mooring Buoy. Force (golf club) was used to break the driver’s side window on one vehicle and it is believed that the suspect made observation of an item of interest prior to forcing entry into said vehicle. As a result, a firearm was removed from this vehicle. Force was not used to enter any other vehicles on this date.
On Wednesday, September 9, 2020, the above listed stolen firearm was recovered from a person in the area of Charleston, SC. This person was arrested and it is uncertain if they are connected to the theft of the firearm.
On Thursday, September 10, Palmetto Dunes Security responded to numerous calls for service regarding vehicles that were unlawfully entered. The incidents were reported on Iron Clad, Haul Away and Hickory Cove. Force was not used to enter any of these vehicles.
Palmetto Dunes Security has learned that similar events have occurred in other communities on Hilton Head Island and they are working closely with these communities and the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO) to identify the suspects. At this time, numerous videos have been relinquished to BCSO and it appears that the suspects are two young male adults who are using bicycles to traverse through the community. Both suspects have been seen while wearing slim backpacks and, based on information from other communities, it appears that the suspects are possibly entering the communities from the beach. As this is an active investigation, the security department will not release any further information at this time. However, it is expected that BCSO will provide an announcement later today and possibly release a photo of a person of interest.
The security department will continue to be vigilant in their patrols and will provide extra patrol staffing when available. Additionally, BCSO will be providing patrol assistance during the early morning hours throughout the weekend.
As these are crimes of opportunity, please make sure that you always remove items of value from your vehicle and always lock your doors when you are not in immediate control of your vehicle. Should you make observation of any suspicious activity, please contact the security department at 843-785-1120. For emergencies, please dial 911.
Should you have video cameras at your residence and locate any activity between September 7 and September 10 between the hours of midnight and 6 a.m. that might be related to the above incidents, please contact the security department.