Harlow Deacon is seen an undated photo. The Charleston County Sheriff’s Office found the 15-month-old girl dead inside her mother’s home alongside her sister on Sept. 29. Justine May, 31, is charged with two counts of homicide by child abuse in relation to their deaths.
Gedney M. Howe IV/Provided
Late on Oct. 3, the sheriff’s office issued the following statement:
“There have been questions regarding radio transmissions involving Charleston County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) deputies responding to calls at a residence on Pinewood Drive.
“Sheriff Carl Ritchie and the Charleston County Sheriff’s Office stand firmly behind our deputy. The audio record confirms that the deputy followed supervisory direction, acted within the law, and adhered to established policies and professional standards at all times.
“Since August 10, 2026, the Charleston County Sheriff’s Office received 21 calls concerning the Pinewood Drive residence, resulting in deputies responding to the location on 13 separate occasions. Those responses included welfare checks, follow-up calls, supervisory review, coordination with other agencies, and continued assessment of the circumstances presented to responding personnel.
“Documented responses and contacts occurred throughout August and September, including August 10, August 11, August 25, August 26, August 27, September 8, September 9, September 11, September 12, September 20, September 22, and ultimately September 29. Some dates involved more than one call, response, or follow-up.
“During several of these contacts, deputies personally interacted with the mother and children, and other agencies participated in the assessment process.
“During the prior responses, deputies and participating agency personnel did not report observations indicating an immediate concern for the children’s welfare.
“Our personnel responded to repeated calls for service, conducted appropriate assessments and welfare checks, consulted supervisory personnel, and coordinated with the South Carolina Department of Social “Services and other agencies. Family members were treated professionally and respectfully and were provided information regarding the appropriate legal avenues available to them.
“On September 29, following additional concerns reported to CCSO, the deputy referenced in the radio transmissions contacted DSS and requested that DSS accompany deputies to the residence. Deputies also canvassed the surrounding area before returning to the home with DSS personnel.