Port Royal, August 30, 2025
News Summary
In Port Royal, SC, eight individuals were arrested following a thorough investigation by the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office into drug activity and gun violence. The raid on a residence uncovered a large stash of illegal narcotics and firearms. Key suspects are facing serious charges including drug trafficking, possession of methamphetamine, and possession of firearms during violent crimes. This operation underscores the ongoing efforts to combat drug-related violence in the region, prompting community involvement in reporting suspicious activities.
Port Royal, SC – Eight individuals were arrested in connection with illegal drug activity and gun violence following an extensive investigation by the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office. The operation focused on a series of shootings that took place in the communities of Burton, St. Helena Island, and Port Royal.
The Beaufort County Violent Crimes Task Force executed a search warrant at a residence located at 1000 Ribaut Road in Port Royal on August 29, 2025. The raid revealed a significant cache of illegal narcotics and firearms, marking a substantial breakthrough in the ongoing investigation.
Among those arrested, the following individuals face multiple charges:
- Donnell Polite, 46, of Dale: Charged with trafficking fentanyl, possession with intent to distribute crack cocaine, possession of methamphetamine, and possession of a weapon during the commission of a violent crime.
- Crystal R. Evans, 42, of Lady’s Island: Charged with trafficking fentanyl, sale and distribution of crack cocaine, possession with intent to distribute crack cocaine, possession of methamphetamine, and possession of a weapon during the commission of a violent crime.
- Brandon R. Parker, 39, of Beaufort: Charged with trafficking fentanyl, possession with intent to distribute crack cocaine and cocaine, possession of methamphetamine, possession of a weapon during the commission of a violent crime, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
- Jermel V. James, 40, of Burton: Charged with trafficking fentanyl, possession with intent to distribute crack cocaine, possession of methamphetamine, possession of a weapon during the commission of a violent crime, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
- Elijah K. Clark, 36, of Burton: Charged with possession of methamphetamine.
- Chavis A. Mathis, 43, of Beaufort: Charged with possession of methamphetamine.
- Robyn S. Goodwine, 30, of St. Helena Island: Charged with possession of methamphetamine.
- Julianna M. Warren, 52, of Beaufort: Charged with possession of methamphetamine.
The investigation is part of a broader effort to reduce gun violence and drug activity in the region. Authorities are actively collaborating to address the rising concerns regarding public safety linked to drug trafficking and gun-related incidents. Residents are encouraged to take part in this initiative by reporting any suspicious activities involving drugs or firearms.
Community members can contact the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office at 843-524-2777. Additionally, tips can be submitted anonymously through the P3 Tips app, online at tipsbft.com, or by calling 844-TIPS-BFT (844-847-7238).
As the investigation remains active, local law enforcement is committed to improving public safety and tackling the issues surrounding gun and drug violence in Beaufort County.
Background Context
The increase in drug trafficking and gun-related crimes has raised significant concerns within communities across the United States, including Beaufort County. Law enforcement agencies have increasingly turned their attention to collaborative task forces, such as the Violent Crimes Task Force, to address these challenges effectively. The raids and arrests that were made signify the ongoing commitment to reducing violence fueled by the drug trade.
FAQ Section
What led to the arrests in Port Royal?
The arrests came as a result of an investigation into a series of shootings in the areas of Burton, St. Helena Island, and Port Royal, which prompted the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office to take action.
What charges were filed against those arrested?
The individuals face a variety of charges, including trafficking fentanyl, possession with intent to distribute crack cocaine and methamphetamine, as well as possession of firearms during violent crimes.
How can residents report suspicious activity?
Residents can report suspicious drug or gun activity by contacting the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office directly, submitting anonymous tips through the P3 Tips app, or visiting their website.
Key Features of the Event
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | 1000 Ribaut Road, Port Royal, SC |
| Date of Bust | August 29, 2025 |
| Number of Arrests | Eight individuals |
| Types of Charges | Trafficking fentanyl, possession of methamphetamine, and gun-related crimes |
| Main Investigative Body | Beaufort County Violent Crimes Task Force |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Eight Arrested in Connection with Drug and Gun Violence in Port Royal
Beaufort County Residents Arrested in Drug and Gun Violence Case
Beaufort Zoning Board Approves Apartment Complex
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Person Airlifted After Fall from Rooftop in Beaufort
Community Events and Updates in Beaufort County
Additional Resources
- WJCL: Beaufort County Drug Bust Arrests
- Wikipedia: Drug Trafficking
- ABC News 4: 8 Arrested in Beaufort County
- Google Search: Beaufort County drug activity
- WTOC: Eight People Arrested Following Investigation
- Google Scholar: Drug Arrests Gun Violence Beaufort
- WJCL: Drug and Gun Bust Tied to Multiple Shootings
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Drug Violence
- Island Packet: Beaufort News
- Google News: Beaufort County shootings
Author: STAFF HERE BEAUFORT
The HERE Beaufort Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Beaufort community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background: Local Roots in Beaufort : Our team includes lifelong Beaufort residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent sale of the historic Crofts Block Building, Beaufort’s equestrian heritage, and growth in local tech and education sectors (e.g., BeaufortTechnical College programs). Collective Experience: With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Beaufort Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality: Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
