Beaufort County, August 30, 2025
News Summary
Eight individuals have been arrested in Beaufort County for their involvement in a major drug and gun violence case linked to recent shootings. The arrests were made following a targeted investigation that uncovered connections to illegal activities, resulting in multiple charges. The local Sheriff’s Office encourages community members to report any suspicious activities to combat ongoing drug and gun problems in the area.
Beaufort County Residents Arrested in Major Drug and Gun Violence Case
The Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office has arrested eight individuals in connection with a significant drug and gun violence investigation linked to multiple shootings in the area. The suspects now face a total of two dozen charges as law enforcement continues to address rampant illegal drug activity in Beaufort County.
The arrests follow a targeted investigation that revealed connections between the suspects and a series of shooting incidents occurring in Burton, St. Helena Island, and Port Royal. This operation reached a pivotal point on August 29, 2025, when deputies executed a search warrant at a residence located in the 1000 block of Ribaut Road, which had been identified as a focal point of the illegal activities. The investigation was bolstered by collaboration with the Port Royal Police Department.
During the search, deputies seized numerous firearms and a significant amount of narcotics, underscoring the serious nature of the ongoing drug and gun violence problem in the community. The individuals arrested include:
- Donnell Polite, 46, from 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 – facing charges including sale and distribution of crack cocaine.
- 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 – similarly charged as Parker.
- 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.
Law enforcement officials have confirmed that the investigation remains active and ongoing, as local authorities continue to monitor and address drug and gun activity in the region. In an effort to combat these issues, the Sheriff’s Office encourages the public to report any related information. Residents can do so by contacting the Sheriff’s Office directly or submitting anonymous tips through the P3 Tips app or the Sheriff’s Office website.
This series of arrests reflects ongoing efforts to crack down on drug and gun violence in Beaufort County, a commitment that local authorities maintain through consistent investigation and community engagement to foster a safer environment for inhabitants.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What prompted the investigation in Beaufort County?
The investigation was prompted by a series of shootings linked to illegal drug activity in the region.
How many individuals were arrested?
Eight individuals were arrested in connection with the investigation.
What are the charges faced by the arrested individuals?
The individuals face a total of two dozen charges, including trafficking fentanyl, possession of various narcotics, and possession of firearms during the commission of violent crimes.
What steps is the Sheriff’s Office taking to combat drug and gun violence?
The Sheriff’s Office is actively investigating drug and gun activities and is urging the community to report any suspicious activities via their contact methods or the P3 Tips app.
Key Features of the Investigation
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Location of Arrests | Port Royal, specifically 1000 block of Ribaut Road |
| Number of Arrests | Eight individuals |
| Total Charges | Two dozen charges |
| Key Drugs Involved | Fentanyl, crack cocaine, methamphetamine |
| Law Enforcement Involvement | Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office and Port Royal Police Department |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Additional Resources
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.
