Port Royal, August 31, 2025
News Summary
The Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office has arrested eight individuals following an investigation into drug trafficking and gun violence in Beaufort County. The suspects face serious charges including trafficking fentanyl and possessing firearms during violent crimes. The law enforcement action, which was focused on multiple shooting incidents, led to the seizure of firearms and illegal narcotics. Authorities are urging residents to report suspicious activities to enhance community safety as the investigation continues.
Port Royal – Eight Arrested in Beaufort County Drug and Gun Violence Investigation
The Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office Violent Crimes Task Force has made eight arrests in connection with an ongoing investigation into illegal drug activity and gun violence in Beaufort County. The arrested individuals are facing serious charges related to trafficking drugs and possessing firearms during violent crimes.
The law enforcement action followed a detailed investigation that focused on various shooting incidents in areas including Burton, St. Helena Island, and Port Royal. Authorities executed a search warrant at a residence located in the 1000 block of Ribaut Road in Port Royal, which led to these arrests and the seizure of multiple firearms and a significant quantity of illegal narcotics.
The individuals arrested and their respective charges include:
- 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, possession with intent to distribute 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 still active and ongoing as law enforcement continues to address the issues of drug trafficking and gun-related crimes in the area. Authorities are encouraging residents to report any suspicious activities to assist in their efforts to maintain community safety. Suspicions can be reported via the non-emergency dispatch line at 843-524-2777, or anonymously through Crime Stoppers of Beaufort County.
The Town of Port Royal Police Department played a supportive role during the investigation and execution of the search warrant, highlighting the cooperative effort among local law enforcement agencies to combat crime.
Background
Beaufort County has seen a rise in gun violence and drug-related activities in recent years, prompting law enforcement to form task forces specifically aimed at tackling these issues. Similar investigations have led to multiple arrests in an effort to curb illegal activity and enhance community safety.
As the investigation progresses, local authorities remain committed to ensuring the safety of the community by proactively addressing drug and gun violence. The cooperation between law enforcement agencies and residents is seen as a vital component in achieving this goal.
FAQ
What were the main charges against the arrested individuals?
The main charges included trafficking fentanyl, possession with intent to distribute crack cocaine, possession of methamphetamine, and possession of a firearm during the commission of a violent crime.
How can residents report suspicious activities?
Residents can report suspicious activities via the non-emergency dispatch line at 843-524-2777, or anonymously through Crime Stoppers of Beaufort County.
Which law enforcement agencies were involved in the investigation?
The Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office Violent Crimes Task Force and the Town of Port Royal Police Department were involved in the investigation and execution of the search warrant.
Key Features of the Drug and Gun Violence Investigation
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Number of Arrests | Eight suspects |
| Main Charges | Trafficking fentanyl, possession of methamphetamine, possession during violent crimes |
| Locations Involved | Burton, St. Helena Island, Port Royal |
| Law Enforcement Involvement | Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office Violent Crimes Task Force, Town of Port Royal Police Department |
| Community Engagement | Encouragement for residents to report suspicious activities |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Eight Arrested for Drug and Gun Crimes in Port Royal
Eight Arrested in Connection with Drug and Gun Violence in Port Royal
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Beaufort Man Charged in Connection with Teen’s Murder
Beaufort County Residents Arrested in Drug and Gun Violence Case
Significant Convictions in 14th Circuit’s Summer Court Sessions
Targeted Shooting Incident in Seabrook
Multiple Arrests at Scott Hill Community Center After Firearm Incident
Beaufort Zoning Board Approves Apartment Complex
Tragic Shooting Claims Life of 14-Year-Old on St. Helena Island
Additional Resources
- WJCL: Beaufort County Drug Bust Arrests
- WTOC: Eight People Arrested Following Investigation
- ABC News 4: 8 Arrested in Beaufort County
- Live 5 News: 8 Charged After Beaufort County Investigation
- Google Search: Beaufort County drug investigation
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.
