Assault & Battery / Disturbing the Peace at Silver Beach
- Person Making Release: Lieutenant Kevin Higgs
- Date and Time of Incident: 6/3/24 at 2034hrs.
- Type of Incident: Assault & Battery / Disturbing the Peace (#25-12866 / #25-12868)
- Location of Incident: Silver Beach County Park – 100 Broad St. St. Joseph, MI 49085.
- Agencies Involved: Berrien County Sheriff’s Office Patrol Division and St. Joseph Department of Public Safety
Narrative:
On Tuesday, June 3, 2025, at approximately 8:30 PM, the Berrien County Sheriff’s Office responded to a large disturbance at Silver Beach County Park. The deputies present requested assistance from both the Berrien County Sheriff’s Office Patrol Division and the St. Joseph Department of Public Safety. Both responded quickly to assist and dispersed a disorderly crowd.
Despite initial efforts, several additional fights broke out in the vicinity. To gain control of the situation and prevent further violence, deputies deployed oleoresin capsicum (OC) spray, commonly referred to as pepper spray, against individuals actively engaged in physical altercations.
Due to ongoing disorderly behavior, the shift lieutenant for the Sheriff’s Office made the decision to close Silver Beach County Park for the remainder of the evening. Announcements were made over the public address systems of multiple patrol vehicles instructing patrons to vacate the park.
As a result of the unrest, three adults were cited for misdemeanor disturbing the peace. Additionally, a warrant will be sought for an individual identified as an instigator in the initial assault which was captured on citizen video and provided to deputies. Earlier in the day, prior to the disturbance, BCSO issued six citations to park patrons for possession of alcohol in violation of park rules.
The Berrien County Sheriff’s Office would like to remind the public that there is a zero-tolerance policy for alcohol, marijuana use in public, and general criminal conduct within Berrien County Parks. We remain committed to ensuring that our public spaces remain safe and enjoyable for all residents and visitors.
