July 9, 2025

Two Arrested in Charleston Drug and Firearm Investigation

News Summary

In Charleston, officers arrested Mark Austin and Dontae Williams during a drug and firearm investigation. Austin was found in possession of ecstasy and marijuana while Williams resisted arrest and was discovered with a loaded pistol. Both face multiple charges highlighting the dangers of illegal drug use and firearm possession.

Charleston, S.C. – Two men were arrested during a drug and firearm investigation on America Street and Jackson Street in Charleston. The incident involved Mark Austin, 37, and Dontae Williams, 36, who were both charged with multiple offenses following their interaction with police.

Officers on patrol observed Austin and Williams smoking marijuana in a parked vehicle. Upon approaching the car, they identified Austin as the driver, who complied with police orders and was taken into custody without incident. During the arrest, officers discovered that he was in possession of both ecstasy and marijuana.

In contrast, Williams, the passenger, resisted arrest when approached by police. Despite being instructed multiple times to exit the vehicle, Williams refused to comply, prompting officers to open the car door to detain him. As officers attempted to apprehend Williams, he attempted to flee and physically resisted, struggling to escape by pulling his arms beneath his body and shouting for assistance. Officers reported that it took additional law enforcement personnel to help control the situation and successfully detain him.

Upon his arrest, Williams was found in possession of marijuana and a loaded pistol equipped with an extended magazine. Notably, he is prohibited from possessing a firearm due to a previous conviction for manufacturing and distributing cocaine base in 2022.

Both men were subsequently transported to the Al Cannon Detention Center and face multiple charges. Austin is charged with possession of ecstasy and marijuana, while Williams is charged with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, resisting arrest, and possession of marijuana.

Charleston Police have issued a warning about the dangers of illegal drug use, particularly when combined with the possession of firearms by individuals legally restricted from carrying weapons. The incident highlights the potential risks involved in such scenarios, especially in terms of public safety.

Video footage of the arrest of Williams has circulated on social media platforms, showing the struggle between police and the suspect. However, officials have clarified that this video only captures the final moments of a longer confrontation and does not provide the full context of the situation.

Police Chief Chito Walker has emphasized the significance of cooperation during police interactions, noting that compliance with lawful orders aids in ensuring safety for both the public and the officers involved.

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges posed by illegal drug use and firearm possession in the community, leading to heightened awareness and a call for adherence to the law among residents.

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Author: STAFF HERE CHARLESTON

The CHARLESTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREcharleston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Charleston, Charleston County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Spoleto Festival USA, Charleston Wine + Food Festival, and the MOJA Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce and the Charleston Museum, plus leading businesses in tourism and maritime industries that power the local economy such as South Carolina Ports Authority and the Charleston Visitor Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREaiken.com, HEREbeaufort.com, HEREchapin.com, HEREcharleston.com, HEREclinton.com, HEREcolumbia.com, HEREgeorgetown.com, HEREgreenwood.com, HEREgreenville.com, HEREhiltonhead.com, HEREirmo.com, HEREmyrtlebeach.com, HEREnewberry.com, HERErockhill.com, HEREspartanburg.com, HEREaustin.com, HEREcollegestation.com, HEREdallas.com, HEREhouston.com, and HEREsanantonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.