Eight people arrested following investigation into shootings and drug activity

BLUFFTON, S.C. (WTOC) - The Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office Violent Crimes Task Force has taken eight individuals into custody and seized numerous firearms and narcotics following an investigation into several shooting incidents connected to illegal drug activity and gun violence.

The investigation focused on shooting incidents that occurred in Burton, St. Helena Island, and in Port Royal.

Investigators found information linking those arrested to a home in the 1000 block of Ribaut Road in Port Royal, as well as the shootings and illegal drug activity.

As a result, investigators obtained a search warrant for the residence. During the execution of that warrant earlier Friday, the following individuals were arrested:

Donnell Polite, 46, of Dale

• Trafficking fentanyl

• Possession with intent to distribute crack cocaine

• Possession of methamphetamine

• Possession of a weapon during the commission of a violent crime

Crystal R. Evans, 42, of Lady’s Island

• Trafficking fentanyl

• Sale and distribution of crack cocaine

• Possession with intent to distribute crack cocaine

• Possession of methamphetamine

• Possession of a weapon during the commission of a violent crime

Brandon R. Parker, 39, of Beaufort

• 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

• Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon

Jermel V. James, 40, of Burton

• Trafficking fentanyl

• Possession with intent to distribute crack cocaine

• Possession of methamphetamine

• Possession of a weapon during the commission of a violent crime

• Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon

Elijah K. Clark, 36, of Burton

• Possession of methamphetamine

Chavis A. Mathis, 43, of Beaufort

• Possession of methamphetamine

Robyn S. Goodwine, 30, of St. Helena Island

• Possession of methamphetamine

Julianna M. Warren, 52, of Beaufort

• Possession of methamphetamine

During the search, investigators seized multiple firearms and a significant amount of illegal narcotics.

The Town of Port Royal Police Department assisted in the investigation and execution of the search warrant.

This remains an active and ongoing investigation.

The Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office encourages residents to report suspicious and criminal activity by calling our non-emergency dispatch line at 843-524-2777.

To remain anonymous, tips can be submitted to Crime Stoppers of Beaufort County via the P3 Tips app on your mobile device, online at tipsbft.com, or by calling 844-TIPS-BFT (844-847-7238).