Port Royal, August 30, 2025
News Summary
The Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office arrested eight individuals linked to gun violence and drug activities following a search warrant execution in Port Royal. The arrests are part of ongoing efforts to combat narcotics-related crime. Authorities seized multiple firearms and significant quantities of illegal drugs during the operation. The sheriff’s office emphasizes community cooperation in addressing these issues and continues to investigate drug trafficking networks in the area.
Port Royal, SC – Following an extensive investigation into gun violence and drug activity, the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office has arrested eight individuals connected to a series of shootings in the areas of Burton, St. Helena Island, and Port Royal. This operation reflects ongoing efforts to reduce violent crime linked to illegal narcotics.
The arrests came after authorities executed a search warrant on August 29, 2025, at a residence located in the 1000 block of Ribaut Road in Port Royal. During this search, officials seized multiple firearms as well as a substantial quantity of illegal drugs, marking a significant win in local law enforcement’s battle against drug-related crime.
Details of Arrests
The individuals arrested and their charges include:
- Donnell Polite, 46 – 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 – Charged with selling and distributing crack cocaine.
- Brandon R. Parker, 39 – 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 – 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 – Charged with possession of methamphetamine.
- Chavis A. Mathis, 43 – Charged with possession of methamphetamine.
- Robyn S. Goodwine, 30 – Charged with possession of methamphetamine.
- Julianna M. Warren, 52 – Charged with possession of methamphetamine.
Ongoing Investigations
The investigation, which has been corroborated by the Port Royal Police Department, is still active and ongoing. Authorities are committed to dismantling drug trafficking networks and addressing the violence associated with them. As the sheriff’s office continues its work, they have called upon community members to assist in the efforts by reporting any information they may have regarding drug or firearm-related activities. Tips can be submitted anonymously through the P3 Tips app, online at tipsbft.com, or by calling 844-TIPS-BFT (844-847-7238).
Background Context
Gun violence and drug activity have been persistent issues in Beaufort County, prompting local law enforcement to prioritize these areas of public safety. The recent arrests are part of a broader initiative aimed at reducing crime rates and ensuring safer neighborhoods through community cooperation and targeted law enforcement strategies. The ongoing investigation and community engagement are crucial elements in addressing the root causes of drug-related violence in the region.
Summary of Key Information
| Individual | Age | Charges |
|---|---|---|
| Donnell Polite | 46 | Trafficking fentanyl, possession with intent to distribute crack cocaine, possession of methamphetamine, possession of a weapon during a violent crime |
| Crystal R. Evans | 42 | Selling and distributing crack cocaine |
| Brandon R. Parker | 39 | Trafficking fentanyl, multiple drug charges, possession of a weapon during a violent crime |
| Jermel V. James | 40 | Trafficking fentanyl, multiple drug charges, possession of a weapon during a violent crime |
| Elijah K. Clark | 36 | Possession of methamphetamine |
| Chavis A. Mathis | 43 | Possession of methamphetamine |
| Robyn S. Goodwine | 30 | Possession of methamphetamine |
| Julianna M. Warren | 52 | Possession of methamphetamine |
FAQ
What prompted the arrests in Beaufort County?
The arrests were part of an investigation into gun violence and drug activity linked to multiple shootings in the region, involving the Sheriff’s Office and support from the Port Royal Police Department.
How many individuals were arrested, and what were their charges?
A total of eight individuals were arrested on charges including trafficking fentanyl, possession of methamphetamine, and other drug-related offenses.
What should community members do if they have information related to drug activity?
The Sheriff’s Office encourages community members to report any relevant information anonymously through the P3 Tips app, online at tipsbft.com, or by calling 844-TIPS-BFT (844-847-7238).
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Beaufort Man Charged in Connection with Teen’s Murder
Beaufort County Residents Arrested in Drug and Gun Violence Case
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Targeted Shooting Incident in Seabrook
Multiple Arrests at Scott Hill Community Center After Firearm Incident
Beaufort Zoning Board Approves Apartment Complex
Teen Charged with Murder After Fatal Shooting of Minor
Teen Arrested in Fatal Shooting of 14-Year-Old on St. Helena Island
Tragic Shooting Claims Life of 14-Year-Old on St. Helena Island
Additional Resources
- Live 5 News: 8 Charged After Beaufort County Investigation
- Wikipedia: Gun Violence
- ABC News 4: 8 Arrested in Beaufort County
- Google Search: Drug Trafficking
- WJCL: Beaufort County Drug and Gun Bust
- Google Scholar: Gun Violence and Drug Trafficking
- Island Packet: Local Crime Report
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Drug Trafficking
- WTOC: Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office Arrest
- Google News: Beaufort County Drug Arrests
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.
