NORTH CHARLESTON, S.C. — A sweeping federal investigation has led to the sentencing of 18 individuals connected to a violent drug trafficking ring in North Charleston, with total prison terms amounting to 144 years. The group was accused of distributing cocaine and fentanyl across the region while engaging in organized gang activity.
Drug Sales Tied to Firearms and Street Violence
The sentencing marks the end of a lengthy federal probe that exposed the gang’s operations throughout the North Charleston area. Prosecutors stated the individuals were responsible for significant trafficking of cocaine and fentanyl — two highly addictive drugs that continue to fuel overdose deaths across South Carolina.
Authorities said the network was tightly linked to local gang activity, with multiple instances of firearm possession by felons contributing to the charges. Several members also faced additional sentencing enhancements due to prior violent criminal histories.
Federal Authorities Push Message of Accountability
“This case is a strong example of how federal, state, and local partnerships can dismantle organized crime and improve community safety,” said U.S. Attorney Adair F. Boroughs in a statement. “These defendants were responsible for distributing deadly drugs and perpetuating violence in our neighborhoods. Today’s sentences bring accountability.”
The investigation was led by the FBI Columbia Field Office, in coordination with the Charleston Police Department, North Charleston Police, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). Assistant U.S. Attorneys Chris Lietzow and Lauren Hummel prosecuted the case.
Lengthy Sentences Reflect Seriousness of Crimes
Sentences handed down ranged from a few years to more than a decade, depending on individual involvement and prior records. Among those sentenced were:
- Darrell Butler, sentenced to over 10 years for conspiracy and firearms possession.
- Tremaine Jenkins, given 12 years for trafficking cocaine and fentanyl.
- Robert Singleton, sentenced to 11 years due to his leadership role in the gang’s activities.
The full list of individuals sentenced has not been publicly disclosed in detail, but prosecutors noted that several were previously convicted felons, some with histories of gun violence and gang affiliation.
A Broader Pattern in South Carolina
This case reflects a broader pattern in South Carolina law enforcement’s approach to dismantling local gangs and drug trafficking networks. Officials say collaborative strategies, including intelligence-sharing between agencies and federal task force support, have led to a growing number of high-profile convictions in recent years…