Fatal Shooting of South Carolina Deputy by Criminal Illegal Immigrant Sparks Investigation
A man identified as Floriberto Perez-Nieto, a criminal illegal immigrant from Mexico with a prior deportation and felony illegal re-entry conviction, allegedly shot a South Carolina deputy in the chest during a traffic stop on Johns Island. The incident occurred after deputies responded to a call for shots fired and later spotted Perez-Nieto's car, leading to a confrontation where he shot at the deputies. Perez-Nieto was later pronounced dead at the hospital after deputies returned fire.
The deputy who was shot was wearing body armor, which saved his life during the incident. Perez-Nieto had previously been arrested for illegally entering the U.S. from Mexico and was removed from the country in 2019. However, he illegally re-entered the country at some point, committing a felony in the process. The source of the firearm used in the shooting remains unclear.
Following the shooting, the Charleston County Sheriff's Office initiated an internal investigation into the incident. Deputies involved in the shooting have been placed on paid administrative leave pending further review. The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division has been notified and will lead the investigation into the shooting.
In conclusion, the shooting involving Floriberto Perez-Nieto, a criminal illegal immigrant, and the South Carolina deputy has raised concerns about illegal re-entry and firearm possession. The incident underscores the risks faced by law enforcement officers and the need for thorough investigations into such cases.