Beaufort, S.C. – [June 2, 2025] - In response to a recent spike in criminal activity at the Garden Oaks apartment complex, the City of Beaufort continues taking decisive steps to protect the health, safety, and welfare of residents and ensure accountability from all stakeholders.
City leadership, in collaboration with the Beaufort Police Department and property management, has been actively addressing the challenges at Garden Oaks through enhanced law enforcement presence, targeted enforcement efforts, and stronger coordination with management. Since May 28, the following actions have taken place:
- Police Substation established in an apartment on-site to increase visibility and responsiveness
- 60+ Extra Patrols and Foot Patrols, including multiple traffic stops in the area
- 9 Writs of Eviction filed by management, including one for a suspect tied to a recent shooting
- A Community Meeting is scheduled for the residents hosted by management to engage the residents and promote safety
While the City continues to uphold its responsibility in law enforcement and has seen progress through improved property management response, it is important to note that many of the public safety concerns appear to stem not from residents, but from individuals who are visiting tenants or trespassing on the property.
City Council is expected to discuss the viability of introducing a new nuisance abatement ordinance at its June 10 Work Session meeting. The purpose of such an ordinance would be to define, prohibit, and establish clear procedures for abatement of public nuisances, allowing for more effective enforcement and accountability procedures.
“We cannot allow violent crime to erode the quality of life in our community. We must take every reasonable measure to deter it proactively and ensure maximum accountability when it occurs,” said City Manager Scott Marshall.
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