On April 30, 2025, two individuals were arrested at a Beaufort County Post Office for attempting to order illegal firearms and firearm parts through the mail. The arrests were made after an investigation led by the United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), with assistance from the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO).
Arrest Details
The man arrested was identified as 18-year-old Brandon Tremayne Anderson, who is currently being held at the Beaufort County Detention Center on charges related to illegal weapons. The identity and charges of the woman involved have not been disclosed at this time. U.S. Postal Inspector Breslin Steverson confirmed that the two adults are awaiting possible indictment by a federal grand jury.
Steverson stated that the investigation began when authorities received a notification about a parcel containing illegal firearms and parts. “Whenever a tip comes in or we are working an investigation and notice parcels containing illegal materials—whether it’s firearms, drugs, or stolen goods—we come together, investigate, and make the arrests,” Steverson explained.
Community Reaction
Kishan Patel, the co-owner of Cheers Liquor and Wine, located two doors down from the post office, witnessed the dramatic scene unfold. While stocking shelves, he heard tires screeching followed by sirens. Patel stepped outside and saw undercover officers with guns drawn. “It was like a movie,” he remarked, noting that such incidents are rare in the area. He expressed relief, saying, “They got one more bad guy off the street, so that’s a good thing.”
Local residents and business owners in the plaza were shocked by the occurrence, with Patel noting the rarity of such a situation in Beaufort.
Investigation and Illegal Gun Trafficking Concerns
Steverson clarified that while incidents of shipping or ordering illegal firearms are not as common as mail theft or drug trafficking, they do occur. “Sadly, people do it more than they should. Guns can be a problem at times. Normally, these are tied to gangs trying to get illegal guns or things like Glock switches,” Steverson explained, referencing a growing issue in the media.
The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities have not revealed whether Anderson or the woman had previous illegal weapon charges or were previously flagged for suspicious packages. Steverson noted that the postal inspectors often use profiling techniques, similar to those seen in crime dramas, to identify parcels that may contain illegal items.
However, he also emphasized that parcels cannot be opened solely based on suspicion. A warrant must first be granted by a federal judge before authorities can inspect the package.
Ongoing Efforts and Public Safety
Steverson reiterated the importance of maintaining public trust in the postal system, stating, “Our main goal is to make sure that everyone maintains trust in the mail and knows that we’re out here actively enforcing the laws that pertain to the mail.” He emphasized the commitment to keeping the community, postal workers, and the post office itself safe while investigating illegal activities.
The investigation into this case continues, and more information may be released as the legal process moves forward.
