2 Arrested in Charleston Drug and Gun Investigation

CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCIV) – A routine patrol by the Charleston Police Department led to the arrest of two men in connection with a drug and firearm investigation near America Street and Jackson Street. The incident, which unfolded over several minutes, has drawn public attention after a portion of it was captured on cellphone video and shared on social media.

According to the Charleston Police Department, officers were patrolling the area when they noticed two individuals smoking what appeared to be marijuana inside a parked vehicle. Upon approaching the car, officers identified the driver as 37-year-old Mark Austin. Police say Austin cooperated with officers and was taken into custody without incident. He was later charged with possession of ecstasy and possession of marijuana.

The situation escalated when officers asked the passenger, identified as 36-year-old Dontae Williams, to exit the vehicle. Police report that Williams refused several verbal commands to comply. Officers then opened the car door to detain him. Williams allegedly attempted to flee and physically resisted efforts to be handcuffed, leading to a tense struggle with law enforcement.

According to police, Williams continued resisting by pulling his arms underneath his body and tucking his legs in, making it difficult for officers to place him in custody. During the arrest, he shouted for help for a moment, which can be seen in the cellphone video footage that surfaced online. However, police emphasized that the video only shows the final moments of what they describe as a longer encounter.

After successfully detaining Williams, officers reported finding marijuana and a loaded pistol with an extended magazine in his possession. Due to a 2022 conviction for manufacturing and distributing cocaine base, Williams is legally prohibited from possessing firearms. He now faces multiple charges, including possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, resisting arrest, and possession of marijuana.

The Charleston Police Department acknowledged the social media video, stating it does not show the full context of the event. Authorities have not released the full footage from the body cameras or offered further public comment on the arrest beyond the official statement.

As the legal process continues, both men remain in custody, and the investigation is ongoing. The incident has sparked renewed discussion about public safety, transparency, and the challenges officers face during high-tension arrests in residential neighborhoods.