News Summary
In a multi-agency operation targeting drug trafficking and firearms violations, five individuals were arrested in Beaufort County. The coordinated effort involved federal agencies such as the FBI and ATF, as well as local law enforcement. Three men face federal charges for drug trafficking offenses, including possession of firearms, while two others were apprehended on unrelated warrants. The operation emphasizes law enforcement’s commitment to combating drug-related crimes in the community.
Burton, South Carolina – Five individuals were arrested on June 5, 2025, during a coordinated multi-agency law enforcement operation targeting drug trafficking and firearms violations in Beaufort County. The operation involved federal agencies including the FBI, ATF, NCIS, as well as local law enforcement units from South Carolina and Georgia.
The law enforcement action began shortly before 6 a.m., culminating in the execution of arrest and search warrants at properties located on Logwood Path and Eastern Road in Burton. Among those taken into custody on federal charges are:
- William Omar Heyward Jr., 44, of Burton
- Ishmael Allen Rivers, 26, of Yemassee
- Christopher Andrew Copeland, 26, of Beaufort
Additionally, two other individuals were arrested on unrelated outstanding local warrants. They are:
- Katie Shannon Bradham, 37, of Beaufort
- Lindel Hugh Bonney III, 34, also of Beaufort
Following their arrests, the three men charged federally made initial court appearances at a federal courtroom in Charleston at 2:30 p.m. the same day, where all pleaded not guilty. A nine-page indictment was unsealed, detailing 14 different counts related to firearms and drug trafficking offenses against the three defendants. Allegations include conspiracy to possess and distribute controlled substances such as fentanyl, cocaine base (crack), methamphetamine, and marijuana.
Notably, the indictment specifies that the defendants possessed firearms to facilitate their drug trafficking activities. William Omar Heyward Jr. is named in all 14 charges and has a significant history of prior felonies related to drug distribution and firearms, which may lead to increased penalties if convicted. Christopher Copeland faces charges in two counts, while Ishmael Rivers is implicated in three counts.
The alleged criminal activities are said to have taken place between November 2023 and May 2024. The indictment further includes charges for possession of firearms with altered serial numbers as well as possession of firearms and ammunition by individuals who are prohibited from doing so.
Bradham and Bonney were taken into custody as they were found to have outstanding local warrants when their names were verified during the operation.
The investigation is being led by the FBI, with legal proceedings expected to be managed by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of South Carolina. All individuals involved are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law or until they opt for a plea deal that includes an admission of guilt.
This operation highlights ongoing efforts by law enforcement agencies to combat drug-related crimes and ensure community safety in the Beaufort County area. The collaboration of multiple law enforcement agencies underscores the significance of addressing complex criminal operations that span local, state, and federal jurisdictions.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Five Arrested in Beaufort County Drug and Gun Operation
Major Law Enforcement Operation Targets Drug Activity in South Carolina
FBI Leads Major Drug Arrest Operation in Burton, SC
Five Arrested in Burton, SC Federal Drug Trafficking Operation
Joint Operation Leads to Five Arrests in Burton, SC
Major Drug and Firearm Bust in Beaufort County
Beaufort County Conducts Drug and Gun Crackdown
South Carolina Law Enforcement Raids Cartel Activities
Gaffney Woman Faces Serious Consequences in Drug Case
Gaffney’s Drug Scene Shaken By Major Guilty Plea
Additional Resources
- FITSNews
- Wikipedia: Drug Trafficking
- Island Packet
- Google Search: Beaufort County crime
- Post and Courier
- Google Scholar: Firearms Trafficking Law
- ABC News 4
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Drug Abuse
