Cross, SC – A routine citation for illegal grilling at a Berkeley County boat landing led to a much more serious development over the weekend. The Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO) confirmed that a 32-year-old Guatemalan national, Marco Tulio Lopez Ramirez, was arrested on a federal immigration warrant during an enforcement operation at the Hatchery Boat Landing in the Cross area.

Deputies were at the boat landing enforcing newly enacted ordinances aimed at improving safety and preserving public spaces. One such ordinance prohibits charcoal grilling on the beach area, a rule that had already been communicated through prior warnings to the public.

According to the sheriff’s office, multiple vehicles were spotted at the site, and some individuals had been previously warned about attempting to grill in prohibited areas. When deputies approached to issue citations and identify violators, they discovered that Lopez Ramirez was among the group.

Upon further investigation, deputies learned that Lopez Ramirez had an active warrant from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), stemming from a previous arrest in North Charleston in 2024. That arrest had prompted a federal immigration review, which ultimately led to the issuance of a removal warrant by ICE.

Lopez Ramirez was taken into custody without incident at the scene and was later transferred to federal authorities for immigration proceedings.

From Ordinance Violation to Federal Custody

The arrest highlights the intersection between local ordinance enforcement and broader public safety concerns, according to law enforcement officials.

“This incident shows the importance of routine enforcement of local regulations,” said a BCSO spokesperson. “While deputies were focused on maintaining order at our public boat landings, they also successfully identified and detained an individual wanted on a federal warrant.”

The new boat landing rules, which restrict the use of charcoal grills and open flames in designated areas, were recently implemented in response to safety hazards, excessive litter, and damage to county-maintained facilities. The Hatchery Boat Landing, in particular, has seen increased enforcement activity following repeated violations by groups gathering for recreational use.

Community Impact and Ongoing Enforcement

While the incident involving Lopez Ramirez has drawn attention due to the federal warrant, BCSO emphasized that enforcement of local boat landing ordinances will continue as part of broader public safety efforts.

“We want to ensure that all residents and visitors can safely enjoy our public spaces,” the agency said in a statement. “That includes compliance with local laws—no matter how minor they may seem.”

Federal Proceedings Pending

As of Tuesday, Marco Tulio Lopez Ramirez is in ICE custody and will face federal immigration proceedings in connection with the outstanding removal warrant. ICE has not released further details regarding his immigration status or the timeline for any potential deportation actions.

This incident serves as a reminder that even routine interactions with law enforcement—such as citations for public ordinance violations—can result in significant legal consequences, especially when outstanding warrants are involved.

Anyone with questions about local boat landing rules or public space regulations is encouraged to contact the Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office or visit their official website for updated ordinance information.