Deputies cleared in deadly domestic dispute shootout

ANDREWS, S.C. (AP) — Three South Carolina sheriff's deputies won't face any criminal charges after they fatally shot a man during a domestic dispute, authorities said.

The State Law Enforcement Division said they found no evidence of wrongdoing on the part of Georgetown County Deputies Drew Wynans, William McWethy and Jerome Maybank in the fatal shooting of Kreed Bateman, 31, news outlets reported.

Deputies responded to a domestic disturbance call on Dec. 10, 2019, at Bateman's home just outside of Andrews, authorities said. Andrews is about 50 miles (80 kilometers) northeast of Charleston.

Deputy Solicitor Alicia A. Richardson said deputies had probable cause to arrest Bateman for second-degree domestic violence for assaulting the mother of his children in their presence.

Richardson said Bateman was wearing a white tank top when deputies arrived and when they returned after speaking with the victim, Bateman changed clothes and was wearing a black T-shirt that concealed a ballistic vest.

She said evidence verified that Bateman shot at deputies first and after the gunfire exchange, he was still able to move and stand. Deputies ordered Bateman to put his hands up but he refused, made a sudden movement toward his weapon and was fatally shot by deputies, Richardson said.

According to SLED, evidence suggested Bateman was intent on shooting the officers and “was willing to die to avoid arrest.”

It's unclear whether the deputies will resume their normal duties.

Copyright © The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Related topics