District of South Carolina
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Anderson County Man Sentenced to 13 Years for $13M Ponzi Scheme and CyberstalkingRead the Press Release
COLUMBIA, S.C. — Michael J. French, 42, of Pendleton, was sentenced to 13 years in federal prison for operating a multimillion-dollar Ponzi scheme and stalking two TikTok content creators. He was also ordered to pay more than $14 million in restitution.
“French built his scheme on lies, stealing millions from hard-working investors to fund luxury cars and real estate,” said U.S. Attorney Bryan Stirling for the District of South Carolina. “When the fraud collapsed, he turned dangerous—harassing and threatening women, showing up at their homes, and ultimately forcing a standoff with law enforcement. This case shows just how far financial crime can go when fueled by greed and deception. Today’s sentence makes clear: if you defraud and endanger others, you will be held accountable.”
“French’s actions hurt many investors who put their trust in him,” said Kevin Moore, special agent in charge of the FBI Columbia Field Office. “Rather than honoring that trust, he exploited it to fund his own lavish lifestyle and to spiral into harassing social media content creators. The FBI remains steadfast in exposing schemes that prey on innocent people, and we will continue to protect the integrity of our financial systems by upholding the rule of law.”
Evidence put forth at the plea hearing established that French owned MJF Holdings, LLC and MJF Capital, LLC. Beginning in March 2019, through these companies, French offered promissory notes to investors that projected annual returns of 12%. He represented to investors that their funds would be used to provide loans to small businesses and that he had experience in the financial industry, including underwriting the loans in which the investor would be invested. French represented to investors that he would not receive compensation unless the promissory notes earned more than the 12% guaranteed to investors.
These were false representations. French paid previous investors with new investor monies because his investment product was not generating returns. This lulled investors into believing the product was successful, when, in fact, French was spending investor money to maintain a lavish lifestyle that included purchases of luxury and classic cars, a boat, and multiple properties. French also used investor funds to support female TikTok content creators by paying them thousands of dollars each month. The investigation revealed that at times French spent as much as $40,000 per day on the TikTok creators.
At one point, the content creators stopped communicating with French. He became angry with the women and began harassing them through various “burner” phone numbers and fake email accounts. French claimed that he was a sniper, had killed people, and that the police could not protect them. French traveled to one woman’s home unannounced, forcing her to hide in a locked vehicle in the garage with her 2-year-old child. She called 911 as French attempted to force his way into the home. He was arrested by local police before he could reach them.
French was ultimately arrested on the federal charges after a standoff with law enforcement. French barricaded himself in a hotel room, brandished a firearm, and only surrendered after a long series of talks with FBI hostage negotiators.
United States Chief Judge Timothy M Cain sentenced French to 156 months imprisonment to be followed by three years of supervised release. French was ordered to pay $14,750,990 in restitution.
The FBI Columbia Field Office and U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, Office of Inspector General investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorney Bill Watkins is prosecuting the case.
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Former Tennessee Deputy Indicted for Enticement of a Minor and Production of Child Sexual Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
COLUMBIA, S.C. — A federal grand jury in Columbia returned a three-count indictment charging Johnathan Nathaniel Allen, 26, of Chattanooga, Tennessee, for enticement of a minor and production of child sexual abuse material.
The indictment alleges that in September 2024 Allen used accounts on Reddit and TextMe to contact a 13-year-old girl in South Carolina. Allen, who was 25 at the time and a deputy with a county sheriff’s office since 2021, posed on the platform as a 14-year-old boy named Josh. Allen used an account on Reddit, and he used that social media account to target minors for sexual exploitation, one of whom was the minor victim. Allen also obtained a virtual phone number through the TextMe platform to facilitate the scheme. Allen targeted and communicated with the victim through both platforms, he told her that he loved her, and he caused the production of sexually explicit content depicting the minor. Allen told the victim that he was proud of her, and that she learned something new she could do. He also requested her to perform additional sex acts, and he told her to delete the messages so no one else would see them.
Allen faces a mandatory 15 years in prison and a maximum penalty of life in prison. He also faces supervision for a period of life following any prison sentence, and sex offender registry requirements. He is currently in custody on state charges. He will be arraigned in federal court on Sept. 4 at 10 a.m. before United States Magistrate Judge Paige J. Gossett.
The case was investigated by the FBI Columbia Field Office and the York County Sheriff’s Office with assistance from Homeland Security Investigations and the Hamilton County, TN Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Elliott B. Daniels is prosecuting the case.
All charges in the indictment are merely accusations and defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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* The term “child pornography” is currently used in federal statutes and is defined as any visual depiction of sexually explicit conduct involving a person less than 18 years old. While this phrase still appears in federal law, “child sexual abuse material” is preferred, as it better reflects the abuse that is depicted in the images and videos and the resulting trauma to the child. The Associated Press Stylebook also discourages the use of the phrase “child pornography.”
Arizona Man Sentenced for Drug Conspiracy in South CarolinaRead the Press Release
COLUMBIA, S.C. — Antonie Elbert Eaddy, 49, of Goodyear, Arizona, has been sentenced to 11 years in federal prison for conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute a quantity of crack cocaine, 5 kilograms of cocaine, 400 grams of fentanyl, and a quantity of marijuana.
Evidence obtained in the investigation revealed that Eaddy and others are responsible for selling 5 kilograms or more of cocaine, 400 grams or more of fentanyl, a quantity of crack cocaine, and a quantity of marijuana.
During their investigation, agents intercepted telephone calls between Eaddy and others talking about sending cocaine and fentanyl from Arizona to South Carolina, concealing them in a box that contained a clock and sending the proceeds back to Eaddy in Arizona. Eaddy also shipped packages of drugs through the mail to Columbia, Florence, Myrtle Beach as well as locations in North Carolina, Maryland, and Florida. Eaddy also used couriers to bring drugs to the east coast and return the drug proceeds to him in Arizona. Eaddy and four other members of his conspiracy were charged together in South Carolina. All have pleaded guilty to their involvement in the conspiracy.
United States District Court Judge Mary Geiger Lewis sentenced Eaddy to 135 months imprisonment, to be followed by a five-year term of court-ordered supervision. There is no parole in the federal system.
This operation is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
This case was investigated by Drug Enforcement Administration and the United States Postal Inspection Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney William K. Witherspoon is prosecuting the case.
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N. Charleston Drug Trafficking Ring SentencedRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, S.C. — A North Charleston organized crime ring has been successfully prosecuted and sentenced. Eighteen defendants received a total of 144 years in federal prison.
The case arose from a long-term wiretap investigation conducted by the Low Country Violent Crime Task Force. The investigation targeted a violent street gang and their associates operating in a North Charleston neighborhood. Fredrick McCray, leader of the street gang, directed drug distribution operations and armed his gang members with fully automatic machine guns to protect their territory from rival gangs and drug traffickers. Cornelius Walker was one of the gang’s primary enforcers and acted as McCray’s right-hand man. Tyrone Cox served as the organization’s primary drug supplier. The gang used an abandoned community center as a central hub for narcotics distribution.
In total, the investigation resulted in the seizure of 3 kilograms of methamphetamine, 1.5 kilograms of cocaine, 700 grams of marijuana, 500 grams of crack cocaine, 26 firearms – including four fully automatic machineguns – and $70,000 in cash.
- Fredrick Wendell McCray, 44, of North Charleston was sentenced to 30 years for conspiring to distribute five or more kilograms of cocaine, 500 or more grams of methamphetamine, and heroin, possession with intent to distribute 28 or more grams of crack cocaine, unlawful use of a telephone to commit a felony drug violation, possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking, and possession of a firearm by a felon.
- Tyrone Cox, 44, of North Charleston, was sentenced to 25 years for conspiring to distribute 5 or more kilograms of cocaine, possession with intent to distribute 28 or more grams of crack cocaine, unlawful use of a telephone to commit a felony drug violation, possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking, and possession of ammunition by a felon.
- Cornelius Walker, 21, of North Charleston, was sentenced to 15 years for conspiring to distribute cocaine, methamphetamine, and marijuana, possession with intent to distribute marijuana, possession of a machinegun in furtherance of drug trafficking, and unlawful use of a telephone to commit a felony drug violation.
- Quinton Antonio McClain, 35, of Mount Pleasant, was sentenced to 12.5 years for conspiring to distribute 500 or more grams of cocaine, possession with intent to distribute cocaine and crack cocaine, and unlawful use of a telephone to commit a felony drug violation.
- Warren Lamar Forrest, 33, of Charleston, was sentenced to 12 years in a separate indictment for felon in possession of a firearm, possession with intent to distribute marijuana, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking.
- Angel Joaquin Flores, 34, of California, was sentenced to 10 years for conspiring to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine and marijuana and unlawful use of a telephone to commit a felony drug violation.
- Kevin William Dukes, 39, of North Charleston, was sentenced to 10 years for conspiring to distribute 500 or more grams of cocaine, methamphetamine, and heroin, and unlawful use of a telephone to commit a felony drug violation.
- Kendrick Smalls, 35, of North Charleston, was sentenced to seven years for conspiring to distribute cocaine, felon in possession of a firearm, possession of a machinegun, and unlawful use of a telephone to commit a felony drug violation.
- Kenneth Roger Brown, 35, of North Charleston, was sentenced to six years for conspiring to distribute cocaine and unlawful use of a telephone to commit a felony drug violation.
- Earl Allen, 24, of Charleston, was sentenced to five years for conspiring to distribute cocaine, possession with intent to distribute crack cocaine, possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking, and unlawful use of a telephone to commit a felony drug violation.
- Santerio Bernard Maurice Smith, 30, of Charleston, was sentenced to four and a half years in a separate indictment for possession of a firearm by a felon and possession of a machinegun.
- Da’Shawn Marquis Richards, 26, of North Charleston, was sentenced to four years in a separate indictment for possession of a firearm by a felon.
- Terrell Kurt Myers, 43, of North Charleston, was sentenced to two years for conspiring to distribute 500 or more grams of cocaine, methamphetamine, and marijuana, and unlawful use of a telephone to commit a felony drug violation.
- Demetric Gantt, 46, of North Charleston, was sentenced to one and half years for conspiring to distribute 28 or more grams of crack cocaine, possession with intent to distribute 28 or more grams of crack cocaine, and unlawful use of a telephone to commit a felony drug violation.
- Clayton Thomas, 22, of North Charleston, was sentenced to three months in a separate indictment for knowingly make a false statement when purchasing a firearm.
- Tyrone Wilson, 63, of North Charleston, was sentenced to time served for conspiring to distribute five or more kilograms of cocaine, possession with intent to distribute 28 grams or more of crack cocaine, unlawful use of a telephone to commit a felony drug violation, possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking, and possession of ammunition by a felon.
- LaJustin Williams, 43, of North Charleston, was sentenced to time served for conspiring to distribute 500 or more grams of methamphetamine, cocaine, and marijuana, possession with intent to distribute 500 or more grams of methamphetamine, possession with intent to distribute crack cocaine, and cocaine, possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking, and unlawful use of a telephone to commit a felony drug violation.
- Tyrone Peterson, 63 of North Charleston, was sentenced to time served for conspiring to distribute 500 or more grams of methamphetamine and marijuana, possession with intent to distribute 50o or more grams of methamphetamine, and unlawful use of a telephone to commit a felony drug violation.
This case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
The case was investigated by the FBI’s Lowcountry Violent Crime Task Force, ATF, Homeland Security Investigations, Charleston County Sheriff’s Office, North Charleston Police Department, Charleston Police Department, Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office, Dorchester County Sheriff’s Office, Mount Pleasant Police Department, Summerville Police Department, South Carolina Law Enforcement Division, and the Charleston County Aviation Authority. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Chris Lietzow and Nick Bianchi are prosecuting the case.
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Sumter Man Sentenced for Shooting at an Energy Facility and Possession of Child Sexual Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
COLUMBIA, S.C. — Donald Ray Hurst, Jr., 35, of Sumter, has been sentenced to more than 10 years in federal prison for destruction of an energy facility and possession of child sexual abuse material.
Evidence obtained in the investigation revealed that on Aug. 11, 2023, Duke Energy called law enforcement to respond to a power outage near Fish Road in Dalzell. FBI agents and deputies with the Sumter County Sheriff’s Office arrived and saw that the regulator bank, which helps distribute power to the local community and businesses, had multiple holes in it that appeared to be from bullets. The damage resulted in a power outage to several thousand customers. The cost of the clean-up and replacement of the regulators was over $100,000. Investigators identified and arrested Hurst as the shooter.
While incarcerated, Hurst was heard on a recorded jail phone call informing someone about a hard drive in his room that needed to be recovered because it “could get someone in trouble.” In a subsequent recorded phone call, Hurst admitted to shooting the regulator bank. He also stated that the hard drive found at his home contained images of child sexual abuse material that he acquired from the dark web.
Agents retrieved the hard drive from the home, and a search warrant on the hard drive revealed several images that were confirmed to be child sexual abuse material by the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.
This case was made possible by investigative leads generated from the ATF’s National Integrated Ballistic Information Network (NIBIN). NIBIN is the only national network that allows for the capture and comparison of ballistic evidence to aid in solving and preventing violent crimes involving firearms. NIBIN is a proven investigative and intelligence tool that can link firearms from multiple crime scenes, allowing law enforcement to quickly disrupt shooting cycles. For more information on NIBIN, visit https://www.atf.gov/firearms/national-integrated-ballistic-information-network-nibin
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the U.S. Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals, who sexually exploit children, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit http://www.justice.gov/psc.
United States District Judge Mary Geiger Lewis sentenced Hurst to 125 months imprisonment, to be followed by a lifetime term of court-ordered supervision and $138,000 in restitution. There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was investigated by the FBI Columbia Field Office, South Carolina Law Enforcement Division, Sumter County Sheriff’s Office, and Sumter Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lamar J. Fyall and Michael Shedd are prosecuting the case.
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Sumter County Man Pleads Guilty to Drug Conspiracy in Sumter, Richland CountiesRead the Press Release
COLUMBIA, S.C. —Jalik Shykeil Tucker, 30, of Sumter, has pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine, 40 grams or more of fentanyl, and a quantity of cocaine and crack cocaine.
Evidence obtained in the investigation revealed that during March 2023, the Richland County Sheriff’s Department and the Sumter County Sheriff’s Office began a joint investigation after receiving information that Jalik Tucker was selling large amounts of methamphetamine and fentanyl.
RCSD narcotics investigators made several undercover buys of methamphetamine and fentanyl from Tucker over a three-week period. During this same time, law enforcement was able to identify two locations in Sumter County and one location in Richland County that Tucker was using in distributing his drugs. They obtained search warrants for all three locations.
During the search, police found more than $25,000 cash, including money they paid in purchasing the drugs. They also found methamphetamine, fentanyl, fluorofentanyl, firearms, heroin, cocaine, crack cocaine, digital scales, baking soda used in the making of crack cocaine, sandwich bags used to distribute the drugs, and an electric mixer also used in drug distribution.
Tucker faces a maximum penalty of life in federal prison. He also faces a fine of up to $10 million restitution, and five-year term of supervision to follow the term of imprisonment. United States District Judge Mary Geiger Lewis accepted the guilty plea and will sentence Tucker after receiving and reviewing a sentencing report prepared by the U.S. Probation Office.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Richland County Sheriff’s Department and the Sumter County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney William K. Witherspoon is prosecuting the case.
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Simpsonville Drug Dealer Found Guilty of Fentanyl Overdose that Killed Greenville ManRead the Press Release
GREENVILLE, S.C. —A federal jury has convicted Mylique McFadden, 28, of Simpsonville, of distribution of fentanyl resulting in death and two counts of possession with the intent to distribute marijuana. The guilty verdict was returned after three days of trial.
“This defendant showed no regard for life by continuing to distribute drugs even after this victim died of an overdose,” said U.S. Attorney Bryan Stirling for the District of South Carolina. “Fentanyl poses a dangerous health risk in our communities, and we’ll continue to prosecute those who distribute it in South Carolina. We send our continued sympathies to the loved ones of the young man who lost his life.”
“This conviction sends a powerful message: those who distribute deadly drugs that devastate families, like fentanyl, will face justice,” said Homeland Security Investigations Charlotte Special Agent in Charge Cardell T. Morant, who also oversees North and South Carolina. “McFadden’s blatant disregard for human life, even after learning of the victim’s death, underscores the dangers posed by drug traffickers. HSI and our law enforcement partners remain unwavering in our commitment to protecting communities and holding those who spread this poison accountable.”
According to evidence presented during trial, McFadden distributed fentanyl to a 28-year-old Greenville man at a Simpsonville gas station. Forty-five minutes later the victim was found unresponsive by a loved one. First responders administered Narcan and conducted CPR but were not able to revive the victim.
Law enforcement recovered the victim’s phone and discovered the text messages between the victim and McFadden arranging the drug deal. They also obtained video surveillance from the gas station that showed the meeting.
Officers obtained a search and seizure warrant for McFadden’s electronic devices. A review of the phones showed multiple messages wherein McFadden was arranging for the sale of marijuana, methamphetamine, and other hard drugs. Evidence showed that McFadden learned about the victim’s death on same evening it occurred. He immediately obtained a new phone number, reported his device as missing, and performed several incriminating internet searches such as “what the charge if somebody die from overdose in South Carolina.”
When McFadden was arrested on January 1, 2025, on a federal warrant, he had eight packages of marijuana in his vehicle. He was released on bond and reoffended in June 2025. Less than two months before his federal trial, officers observed McFadden sell marijuana at another local gas station. Based on the sale and surveillance of his apartment, officers obtained and executed a search warrant on the residence. They found over a pound of marijuana, digital scales, packaging materials, and large quantities of cash were recovered.
McFadden faces a mandatory minimum penalty of 20 years imprisonment for the fentanyl and an additional five years for the marijuana. He also faces a fine of up to $250,000, restitution, and three years of supervision to follow the term of imprisonment. United States District Judge Jacquelyn Austin presided over the trial and will sentence McFadden after receiving and reviewing a sentencing report prepared by the U.S. Probation Office.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, the Greenville City Police Department, and the Greenville County Sheriff’s Office as part of the Greenville County Drug Enforcement Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorney Bill Watkins and Winston Marosek are prosecuting the case.
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Rock Hill Man Pleads Guilty in Large Drug ConspiracyRead the Press Release
COLUMBIA, S.C. —Jarman Lamar White, 38, of Rock Hill, has pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute 400 grams of fentanyl and a quantity of cocaine and methamphetamine.
Evidence obtained in the investigation revealed that agents have learned White was responsible for selling drugs that were obtained from members of the Darryl Hemphill drug organization. Agents learned that one of the drugs obtained by this group were pills that resembled oxycodone 30 mg tablets, also known in the generic form as a Roxicodone. The replicate pills were produced by members of the organization. The pills were clandestinely manufactured with fentanyl at locations in Rock Hill and Charlotte.
During the investigation, multiple phone calls were intercepted between White and other members of the organization where White was heard acquiring cocaine and methamphetamine, in addition to fentanyl, from other members. Agents also learned that White allowed the organization to use the basement of his girlfriend’s home in Rock Hill to set up multiple pill press machines used to manufacture the fentanyl-laced pills. White and others were surveilled and observed moving the pills press machines into the basement of the residence. White allowed multiple members of the Hemphill operation to utilize this residence to store and later operate multiple pill press machines to clandestinely manufacture these fentanyl-laced pills. On one occasion, White and members of the organization made approximately 50,000 fentanyl-laced pills in the basement of the residence during a single day. White was paid a quantity of fentanyl-laced pills and several thousand dollars in return for using his residence.
At the time of White’s arrest in June 2018, agents conducted a search warrant at this residence and located multiple pill press machines, pill binder, masks/respirators, an industrial mixing machine, and a 9mm pistol which was in a backpack belonging to White.
In addition, after the arrest of the other members of the organization, agents of the York County Multijurisdictional Drug Enforcement Unit completed three separate controlled purchase of fentanyl pills from White. Through these controlled purchases, agents learned White had continued to conspire with others to distribute fentanyl-laced pills after his initial arrest.
White faces a maximum penalty of life in federal prison. He also faces a fine of up to $20 million, restitution, and a 10-year term of supervision to follow the term of imprisonment. United States District Judge Mary Geiger Lewis accepted the guilty plea and will sentence White after receiving and reviewing a sentencing report prepared by the U.S. Probation Office.
This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
This case was investigated by the FBI Columbia Field Office, Drug Enforcement Administration, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, York County Multijurisdictional Drug Enforcement Unit, South Carolina Law Enforcement Division, and the Richland County Sheriff’s Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney William K. Witherspoon is prosecuting the case.
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West Columbia Man Sentenced to More than 8 Years in Federal Prison for Gun ChargeRead the Press Release
COLUMBIA, S.C. — Kendolius Cortez Jones, 32, of West Columbia, was sentenced to more than eight years in federal prison after pleading guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm.
Evidence presented to the court showed that from April through June 2023, Jones sold 13 firearms to undercover agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The firearms sold consisted of stolen firearms and firearms capable of accepting large capacity magazines.
Jones was prohibited from possessing firearms and ammunition due to prior felony convictions for criminal conspiracy, assault and battery, failure to stop for blue light, contributing to the delinquency of a minor, forgery, driving under suspension, and multiple drug related offenses, including distribution of crack cocaine.
United States District Judge Sherri A. Lydon sentenced Jones to 107 months imprisonment, to be followed by a three-year term of court-ordered supervision. There is no parole in the federal system.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Homeland Security Investigations, West Columbia Police Department, Lexington County Sheriff’s Department, and Richland County Sheriff’s Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ariyana Gore prosecuted the case.
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Woodruff Drug Dealer Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
SPARTANBURG, S.C. — Travis Legg, 44, of Woodruff, has been sentenced to more than 10 years in federal prison after he pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute over 500 grams of methamphetamine and over 40 grams of fentanyl.
Evidence presented to the court showed that in 2023, a joint federal and local investigation revealed Legg was part of a fentanyl and methamphetamine trafficking conspiracy based in Spartanburg. Legg was indicted for his role in the conspiracy and was arrested on federal charges in June 2024, at which time he possessed additional methamphetamine and marijuana.
United States District Judge Donald C. Coggins sentenced Travis Legg to 126 months imprisonment to be followed by a five-year term of court-ordered supervision.
This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations Border Enforcement Security Task Force, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Spartanburg County Sheriff’s Office, Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office, Greenville County Sheriff’s Office, Greenville Police Department, Greenville County Multi-Jurisdictional Drug Enforcement Unit, the South Carolina Department of Corrections Office of Inspector General, and Anderson County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jamie Schoen is prosecuting the case.
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Lancaster County Man Sentenced to 11 Years for Drug ConspiracyRead the Press Release
COLUMBIA, S.C. — Christopher William Stevens, 35, of Lancaster, has been sentenced to more than 11 years in federal prison for conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine and a quantity of fentanyl.
Evidence obtained in the investigation revealed that the Lancaster County Sheriff’s Office and Homeland Security Investigations were investigating Stevens and others as part of a drug conspiracy distributing methamphetamine and fentanyl in the area. On at least four occasions in 2021 and twice in 2022, law enforcement conducted traffic stops on cars in which Stevens was the driver or the passenger and located various controlled substances, including suboxone, gabapentin, marijuana, heroin, fentanyl, and methamphetamine. The police also located digital scales, glass pipes, and firearms during these traffic stops. As part of the investigation, on at least two occasions in 2021, law enforcement made controlled purchases of fentanyl directly from Stevens.
United States District Judge Mary Geiger Lewis sentenced Stevens to 135 months in prison, to be followed by a four-year term of court-ordered supervision. There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and the Lancaster County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney William K. Witherspoon is prosecuting the case.
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Goose Creek Man Pleads Guilty in Public Corruption SchemeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, S.C. —Hason Tatorian “Tory” Fields, 51, of Goose Creek, has pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit bribery with respect to programs receiving federal funds and honest services wire fraud, bribery with respect to programs receiving federal funds, and honest services wire fraud.
Evidence obtained in the investigation revealed that Fields conspired with others to pay bribes to Sandino Moses. At the time, Moses was serving as a member of the City of North Charleston’s City Council representing District 7. Fields paid Moses two bribes as part of an effort to secure his support for the rezoning of the Baker Hospital site. The application for rezoning was pending before City Council when Fields first approached Moses.
Fields faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison. He also faces a fine of up to $250,000, restitution, and three years of supervision to follow the term of imprisonment. United States District Judge Richard M. Gergel accepted the guilty plea and will sentence Fields after receiving and reviewing a sentencing report prepared by the U.S. Probation Office.
This case was investigated by the FBI Columbia Field Office and the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Emily Limehouse and Whit Sowards are prosecuting the case.
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Aiken Woman Convicted of Collecting Dead Mother’s Social Security BenefitsRead the Press Release
COLUMBIA, S.C. —A federal jury has convicted Cynthia Delores Holland, 61, of Aiken, formerly the county director of voter registration and elections, of fraudulently obtaining Social Security benefits. A guilty verdict was returned following a day and a half of trial.
Evidence obtained in the investigation revealed that Holland improperly obtained her mother’s retirement benefits from the Social Security Administration (SSA) after her mother’s death in 2013. Those benefits continued to be paid by mistake into a joint account held by Holland and her mother. Rather than notify the SSA of the error, Holland moved the money into her personal account and spent it. Her theft took place until December 2022, when the error was discovered by the SSA, and the benefits were terminated. During that near-decade long span, Holland received over $168,000.
The discrepancy was identified in 2021 by the SSA during its Death Match Project. As part of the project, the SSA requested death verifications from the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control going back to 2005, then compared those records with the list of SSA retirement beneficiaries. Holland’s mother’s name was on the list, which initiated the investigation.
“Holland’s actions showed a decade of deception as she continued receiving and spending benefits intended for her deceased mother,” said U.S. Attorney Bryan Stirling for the District of South Carolina. “We are committed to protecting our taxpayer-funded systems from fraud and abuse.”
“Cynthia Holland exploited her own mother’s death to steal from a program meant to support the most vulnerable,” said Michelle L. Anderson, Acting Inspector General for SSA. “As a former public official, her deception is especially troubling. We will continue to pursue those who abuse Social Security for personal gain.”
Holland faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison. She also faces a fine of up to $250,000, restitution, and three years of supervision to follow the term of imprisonment. Senior United States District Judge Joseph F. Anderson, Jr. presided over the trial and will sentence Holland after receiving and reviewing a sentencing report prepared by the U.S. Probation Office.
This case was investigated by the Social Security Administration, Office of the Inspector General. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Winston Holliday and Scott Matthews are prosecuting the case.
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Armed Felon Sentenced to 10 Years for Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
SPARTANBURG, S.C. — Daniel Mac Wentz, 46, of Blacksburg, was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison after he pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine.
Evidence presented to the court showed that on April 19, 2024, Spartanburg County Sheriff’s deputies conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle driven by Wentz. In the car, Wentz had 88 grams of methamphetamine and a loaded 9mm pistol. The investigation revealed that Wentz was connected to a large drug trafficking ring in the Upstate.
Wentz had prior drug distribution charges, in addition to convictions for indecent exposure, assault and battery of an aggravated nature, assault with intent to kill, and multiple firearms charges.
United States District Judge Donald C. Coggins sentenced Daniel Wentz to 120 months imprisonment to be followed by a five-year term of court ordered supervision.
“This career criminal was part of a larger drug trafficking ring responsible for bringing substantial quantities of illegal drugs into the Upstate,” said U.S. Attorney Bryan Stirling for the District of South Carolina. “Getting these drugs off of our streets and holding offenders like this accountable makes our communities safer.”
“This sentencing demonstrates the unwavering commitment of Homeland Security Investigations and our law enforcement partners to protect our communities from the dangers of drug trafficking and armed criminals,” said ICE Homeland Security Investigations Charlotte Special Agent in Charge Cardell T. Morant who also oversees North and South Carolina. “Daniel Wentz’s extensive criminal history and his role in methamphetamine distribution posed a significant threat to public safety. HSI will continue to work tirelessly with our federal, state, and local partners to dismantle criminal networks and hold offenders accountable.”
This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Spartanburg County Sheriff’s Office, Greenville County Sheriff’s Office, Greenville Police Department, Greenville County Multi-Jurisdictional Drug Enforcement Unit, South Carolina Department of Corrections Office of Inspector General, and Anderson County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jamie Schoen is prosecuting the case.
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Myrtle Beach Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Child Sex CrimeRead the Press Release
FLORENCE, S.C. — James Edward Moss, Jr., 40, of Myrtle Beach, has been sentenced to four years in federal prison for transporting an individual with intent to engage in criminal sexual activity.
Evidence obtained in the investigation revealed that in April 2022, Moss met a minor online, picked her up, and transported her to a hotel room where he engaged in sexual activity with the minor. The investigation revealed that between April 20 to April 23, 2022, Moss recorded several videos of Moss engaging in sexual activity with the minor.
United States District Judge Joseph Dawson, III sentenced Moss to 55 months imprisonment, to be followed by a 10-year term of court-ordered supervision. Moss is required to register as a sex offender pursuant to his conditions of supervision. There is no parole in the federal system. Moss was also ordered to pay $3,000 in restitution to the victim.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the U.S. Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals, who sexually exploit children, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit http://www.justice.gov/psc.
This case was investigated by the FBI Columbia field office and the Horry County Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lauren Hummel and Bill Watkins are prosecuting the case.
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California Woman Who Fled Federal Bond Sentenced to 17 Years for Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
GREENVILLE, S.C. — Dana Diane Shay, 37, of Fountain Valley, California, was sentenced to 17 years in federal prison after she pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine.
Evidence presented to the court showed that on two occasions in 2020, Shay delivered narcotics as part of a drug trafficking conspiracy that reached into South Carolina. On Nov. 25, 2020, Shay delivered 29 pounds of methamphetamine in Charlotte, North Carolina. Again, on Dec. 7, 2020, Shay delivered 50 pounds of methamphetamine and 45 pounds of marijuana in Charlotte.
In December of 2020, Shay was arrested on federal drug trafficking charges and arraigned in Greenville and placed on bond. However, Shay cut off her ankle monitor and became a fugitive in August of 2021. Shay remained a fugitive until August 2024 when she was arrested out of state and transported back to South Carolina to face her federal charges. The court increased Shay’s sentence because she absconded.
United States District Judge Donald C. Coggins sentenced Dana Shay to 204 months imprisonment to be followed by a five-year term of court-ordered supervision. The court also ordered a money judgment against Shay for $300,000.
This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations Border Enforcement Security Task Force, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Spartanburg County Sheriff’s Office, Cherokee County Sherriff’s Office, Greenville County Sheriff’s Office, Greenville Police Department, Greenville County Multi-Jurisdictional Drug Enforcement Unit, the South Carolina Department of Corrections Office of Inspector General, and Anderson County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jamie Schoen is prosecuting the case.
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York County Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Drug Conspiracy While in State PrisonRead the Press Release
COLUMBIA, S.C. — Jacquese Traveon Underwood, 40, of Rock Hill has been sentenced to 10 years in federal prison for conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine and a quantity of fentanyl. At the time of the conspiracy, Underwood was incarcerated in the Department of Corrections serving a sentence for drug trafficking.
During an investigation of Darryl Hemphill and others, agents learned that Underwood was responsible for arranging the purchase and distribution of narcotics he obtained from Hemphill, including cocaine, methamphetamine, and fentanyl-based pills. The fentanyl-based pills Underwood obtained from Hemphill resembled that of an Oxycodone pill, also known in the generic form as Roxicodone. Hemphill and other members of his drug trafficking organization produced the pills, which were clandestinely manufactured with fentanyl at various locations around Rock Hill and Charlotte. As the leader of this organization, Hemphill was supplying the drugs to Underwood while he was incarcerated in the South Carolina Department of Corrections.
Underwood used his drug trafficking knowledge to continue his drug trafficking business while inside the SCDC system. Agents identified Underwood from monitored telephone calls with Hemphill and statements from others. Agents learned that Underwood and others taught Hemphill the process to order, ship, and receive narcotics from Southern California. Underwood utilized associates outside the prison facility to obtain the drugs from Hemphill in Rock Hill. Underwood arranged the purchase and exchange of the drugs from Hemphill to other individuals.
While incarcerated, Underwood received at least 1,000 fentanyl-based pills, over 700 grams of methamphetamine, and approximately 312 grams of cocaine from Hemphill.
United States District Mary Geiger Lewis sentenced Underwood to 121 months imprisonment, to be followed by a four-year term of court-ordered supervision. There is no parole in the federal system.
This investigation and arrests are part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Drug Enforcement Administration, York County Multijurisdictional Drug Enforcement Unit, South Carolina Law Enforcement Division, the Richland County Sheriff’s Department, and the South Carolina Department of Corrections. Assistant U.S. Attorney William K. Witherspoon is prosecuting the case.
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Lancaster County Man Sentenced to 15 years for Drug ConspiracyRead the Press Release
COLUMBIA, S.C. — Tymarious Nydarious Thompson, 24, of Lancaster, has been sentenced to 15 years in federal prison for conspiracy to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine, a quantity of cocaine and marijuana.
Evidence obtained in the investigation revealed that Thompson conspired with Mikel Stewart and others to obtain and distribute more than 500 grams of methamphetamine, a quantity of cocaine, and a quantity of marijuana. During a search of his home in 2019, investigators found 7 pounds of marijuana, a sawed-off shotgun, a handgun, ammunition, and counterfeit money. Law enforcement also made several purchases of pure ice methamphetamine from him. During a subsequent search of his home in 2020, law enforcement found more than 198 grams of pure ice methamphetamine, marijuana, and crack cocaine along with another firearm and over $4,000. Even after this discovery, Thompson continued to sell more ice methamphetamine to an undercover agent.
United States District Mary Geiger Lewis sentenced Thompson to 180 months imprisonment, to be followed by a five-year term of court-ordered supervision. There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was investigated by Department of Homeland Security Investigations, Lancaster County Sheriff’s Office, Lancaster Police Department, and the York County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney William K. Witherspoon is prosecuting the case.
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Horry County Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Gun, Drug ChargesRead the Press Release
FLORENCE, S.C. — Zuri Jaheem Stephens, 23, of Horry County, has been sentenced to more than eight years in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and marijuana and possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking.
Evidence obtained in the investigation revealed that in October and November 2022, law enforcement conducted a series of controlled buys of fentanyl from Stephens. Following those buys, law enforcement obtained search warrants for addresses in Little River that were associated with Stephens. During the search of one of these addresses, law enforcement found fentanyl and methamphetamine, pills, a pill press, and assorted firearm magazines. During the search of another address, law enforcement found fentanyl, methamphetamine, and two firearms.
United States District Judge Joseph Dawson, III sentenced Stephens to 105 months imprisonment, to be followed by a five-year term of court-ordered supervision. There is no parole in the federal system.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Horry County Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Katherine Flynn and Lauren Hummel are prosecuting the case.
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Columbia Man on State Probation Sentenced to 5 Additional Years in Federal Prison for Gun ChargeRead the Press Release
COLUMBIA, S.C. — Jackie Jermaine Watson, 30, of Columbia, has been sentenced to five years in federal prison for possessing a firearm during and in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, a sentence that will run consecutively to the sentence he is currently serving in state prison for violating his probation.
Evidence obtained in the investigation revealed that on April 22, 2024, Columbia Police Department officers responded to a motel on North Main Street to investigate a stolen moped. Officers found the moped, and when Watson saw officers inspecting it, he confronted them. Watson eventually admitted to buying the moped on the street from a drug user. Officers obtained a search warrant for the motel room where Watson had been staying and they found a .40 caliber pistol, 62 grams of crack cocaine, 473 grams of marijuana, along with Watson’s driver’s license and court paperwork. Officers also found the key to the moped, which Watson previously denied having in his possession.
Watson has prior convictions for assault and battery first degree, possession of a stolen pistol, and burglary. Watson was on state probation for his prior stolen pistol conviction at the time of this incident. Watson was also a prior participant in the City of Columbia’s Project Ceasefire program that calls in certain probationers and provides access to a variety of social service organizations designed to assist the person in staying on the right track and preventing recidivism. Participants are also warned that any future crimes will result in an expedited prosecution.
United States District Court Judge Mary Geiger Lewis sentenced Frazier to 60 months imprisonment, to be followed by a three-year term of court-ordered supervision. That 60-month sentence will begin after Watson completes the state sentence he is currently serving. There is no parole in the federal system.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Columbia Police Department. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Sanford is prosecuting the case.
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Columbia Man Sentenced to 5 Years in Federal Prison for Firearm OffenseRead the Press Release
COLUMBIA, S.C. — Willie Roger Davis, 35, of Columbia, has been sentenced to five years in federal prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm.
Evidence obtained in the investigation revealed that Columbia Police Department officers conducted a traffic stop on a rental moving truck that was being sought by the owner. Davis immediately exited the driver’s seat and began walking toward police officers. Officers searched Davis and found a .357 revolver in his pants pocket, which he admitted getting from a family member. Davis has prior convictions for armed robbery, strong arm robbery, and burglary.
United States District Mary Geiger Lewis sentenced Frazier to 60 months imprisonment, to be followed by a three-year term of court-ordered supervision. There is no parole in the federal system.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Columbia Police Department. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Sanford is prosecuting the case.
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Two Indicted as Law Enforcement Captures Largest Fentanyl Seizure in South Carolina HistoryRead the Press Release
COLUMBIA, S.C. — Federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies seized 156 pounds of fentanyl during a criminal investigation, which is believed to be the largest seizure of fentanyl in state history. The seizure resulted in multiple arrests and was first announced by Attorney General Pam Bondi and Drug Enforcement Administration Acting Administrator Robert Murphy.
On July 1, DEA agents, Lexington County Sheriff’s deputies, and South Carolina State Transport Police officers conducted two coordinated traffic stops in Lexington and Richland counties. Inside a tractor trailer that was transporting products with a legitimate business purpose, law enforcement also found large packages of illegal narcotics. Investigators believe the seized narcotics were sourced in Mexico and transported across the southern border.
Law enforcement seized approximately 156 pounds (71 kilograms) of fentanyl and 44 pounds (20 kilograms) of methamphetamine in total. According to the DEA, two milligrams of fentanyl is considered a lethal dose; therefore, one kilogram of fentanyl can kill 500,000 people. The seized fentanyl had the potential to kill 36 million people and a street retail value of $1.7 million.
Two brothers operating the tractor trailer were arrested following the traffic stop and indicted yesterday. Alberto Rios-Landeros, 26, and Chris Guadalupe Rios-Landeros, 23, both of Delano, California, have been indicted on charges of conspiracy and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and methamphetamine. Both face a maximum penalty of up to life in prison.
“This isn't just a drug bust; it's a life-saving intervention on an unprecedented scale for our state,” said U.S. Attorney Bryan Stirling for the District of South Carolina. “Law enforcement has been working together at every level to keep South Carolina safe, and we’re committed to dismantling the criminal networks that bring this poison into our communities.”
“The DEA and our partners are working hard day in and day out to protect our communities from the dangers associated with fentanyl. DEA’s priorities are to save American lives and to keep our communities safe,” said Jae W. Chung, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Atlanta Division. “We will continue to leverage every partnership, and every resource available to ensure drug traffickers who distribute fentanyl, are brought to justice.”
“This was a great example of how law enforcement works together to make our community safer. I am proud of the work and collaboration of all the agencies involved to take this massive amount of drugs off of our streets,” Lexington County Sheriff Jay Koon said. “This should send a strong message to criminals that we are all working together to combat illegal drugs.”
This investigation is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department, with assistance from Homeland Security Investigations, the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division, the State Transport Police, the Kershaw County Sheriff’s Office and the Richland County Sheriff’s Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mike O’Mara is prosecuting the case.
All charges in an indictment are merely accusations and defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Lowcountry Babysitter Indicted for Child Sex CrimesRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, S.C. — A federal grand jury in Florence returned a 10-count indictment against Brandon Brill, 26, of Berkeley County, for production and attempted production of child sexual abuse material and coercion and enticement of minors.*
The indictment alleges that Brill was a nanny and childcare provider in the District of South Carolina. From as early as June 2023 until his arrest on various state charges in February 2025, Brill used his position of trust and access to children to exploit at least six minor victims. Brill would regularly invite the children he cared for and/or who lived in the same neighborhood as him over to his house to play video games and have sleepovers. Further, Brill would use the minors he had access to by virtue of his position as a nanny and childcare provider to gain access to additional minors. Brill faces a maximum penalty of life in prison.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the U.S. Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals, who sexually exploit children, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit http://www.justice.gov/psc.
The case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, the Mount Pleasant Police Department, and the Moncks Corner Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Amy Bower is prosecuting the case.
All charges in the indictment are merely accusations and defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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* The term “child pornography” is currently used in federal statutes and is defined as any visual depiction of sexually explicit conduct involving a person less than 18 years old. While this phrase still appears in federal law, “child sexual abuse material” is preferred, as it better reflects the abuse that is depicted in the images and videos and the resulting trauma to the child. The Associated Press Stylebook also discourages the use of the phrase “child pornography.”
Columbia Rapper Sentenced to 9 Years in Federal Prison for Bank Fraud and Money LaunderingRead the Press Release
COLUMBIA, S.C. — Malik Jahlil Bell, 28, a/k/a “Leek Obama,” of Columbia, has been sentenced to nine years in federal prison for bank fraud, money laundering, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Evidence obtained in the investigation revealed that Bell was the leader of a fraud ring that called themselves “Swiperz Only.” Bell and his co-defendants learned to exploit a customer service benefit from banks that provided “provisional credits” to accounts when a customer reported fraudulent activity. These “provisional credits” were temporarily applied to the accounts while the bank investigated the disputed payments or reports of fraud. Bell and the “Swiperz Only” ring concocted a scheme that allowed them to make multiple withdrawals of these “provisional credits” from ATM machines, leaving the accounts with large negative balances.
Bell and the “Swiperz Only” brazenly flaunted their crimes, frequently posting pictures and videos on social media sites of huge stacks of cash, opulent jewelry and firearms. Bell personally posted multiple music videos referencing the “Swiperz Only” scheme and advertising it to others. Evidence presented during Bell’s guilty plea and sentencing showed that the fraud ring shared a large home, decorated with custom “Swiperz Only” logos. The logo depicts a man standing in front of an ATM with a duffle bag filled with cash. The group also purchased custom diamond jewelry of the “Swiperz Only” logo and frequently wore “Swiperz Only” branded clothing.
United States District Mary G. Lewis sentenced Bell to 108 months imprisonment, to be followed by a five-year term of court-ordered supervision. There is no parole in the federal system. He was ordered to repay $238,652.87 in restitution to the victim bank.
This case was investigated by United States Postal Inspection Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney T. DeWayne Pearson is prosecuting the case.
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Columbia Man Sentenced to 14 Years in Federal Prison for Trafficking Cocaine through the U.S. MailRead the Press Release
COLUMBIA, S.C. — Axel Gustavo Calderon-Rosado, 36, of Columbia, has been sentenced to 14 years in federal prison for trafficking cocaine.
Evidence presented in court revealed that in 2021, the Richland County Sheriff’s Department and U.S. Postal Inspection Service began investigating Calderon-Rosado for his involvement in a drug trafficking operation that used the U.S. Postal Service to ship parcels of drugs and drug proceeds. Investigators identified Calderon-Rosado as a significant supplier of cocaine in both the Columbia and Lexington County areas.
According to the investigation, Calderon-Rosado regularly shipped large sums of cash to Puerto Rico, and in return, received kilogram quantities of cocaine by mail. Investigators identified two locations associated with Calderon-Rosado that he used for storing and distributing illegal drugs. On July 13 and Oct. 4, 2021, investigators intercepted two suspicious parcels addressed to locations associated with Calderon-Rosado. The first package contained approximately one kilogram of cocaine; the second, more than three kilograms.
Following the October package, authorities executed an undercover operation involving the second package, and arrested Calderon-Rosado after he took possession of the cocaine. Law enforcement searched both associated addresses and seized more than $30,000 in cash, cocaine, marijuana, drug paraphernalia, including a kilogram press, multiple stolen firearms, and ammunition. A review of postal and financial records revealed that between April 2020 and November 2023, Calderon-Rosado received over 30 kilograms of cocaine through the mail as part of the trafficking operation.
United States District Judge Mary Geiger Lewis sentenced Axel Gustavo Calderon-Rosado to 168 months imprisonment, to be followed by a four-year term of court-ordered supervision. There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the FBI Columbia field office, the Richland County Sheriff’s Department, the Columbia Police Department, and the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ariyana Gore and Lamar Fyall prosecuted this case.
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United States and the States of Georgia, Colorado, and South Carolina Obtain $114.5M in Judgments in a Sprawling Cancer Genetic Testing Lab SchemeRead the Press Release
COLUMBIA, S.C. —Kevin S. Murdock, former CEO and owner of the now-defunct laboratory Premier Medical, Inc., has agreed to a consent judgment of $27,544,460, acknowledging there is a likelihood he would be found liable in the civil action brought against him by the United States and the States of Colorado, Georgia, and South Carolina (the Governments) for violating the False Claims Act, the Georgia False Medicaid Claims Act, the Colorado Medicaid False Claims Act, and the South Carolina Medical Assistance Provider Fraud Statute. The settlement came one day before his two-week trial was set to begin.
This adds to the $87 million in judgments and settlements the Governments previously obtained against the other defendants named in their suit.
On July 30, 2021, the Governments filed a Joint Complaint in Intervention against Defendants Premier Medical, Inc., Kevin S. Murdock, Michael Conroy, Freedom Medical Labs, LLC, Robert Alan Richardson, and Edward Burch for fraud, waste and abuse against the Medicaid programs of Georgia, Colorado and South Carolina. On April 25, 2025, the U.S. District Court for the District of South Carolina entered a default judgment totaling $71,015,255.70 against Premier Medical, Inc., the clinical lab previously owned by Kevin S. Murdock in Greenville, South Carolina. Premier Medical has been terminated by each of the Medicaid agencies of Georgia, Colorado and South Carolina.
By virtue of the default judgment against Premier Medical, the facts alleged by the Governments as to Premier Medical are taken to be true. Moreover, Murdock has acknowledged that there is a likelihood he would be found liable for violating the federal and state False Claims Acts. The Joint Complaint in Intervention included the following facts:
Premier Medical, its owner Kevin Murdock, and Michael Conroy (together, Premier Defendants), paid illegal kickbacks to Defendants Freedom Medical Labs, LLC, Robert Alan Richardson, and Edward Burch (together, Freedom Defendants), for referrals for expensive cancer genetic (CGX) testing. The Premier Defendants conspired with the Freedom Defendants to target Medicaid beneficiaries in the states of Georgia, Colorado and South Carolina because those states reimbursed favorably for CGX testing. As an example, Premier Medical could gain close to $12,000 in reimbursement for CGX testing of a Georgia Medicaid patient and close to $9,500 in reimbursement for CGX testing of a Colorado Medicaid patient. Accordingly, in 2018 and 2019, the Freedom Defendants traveled to Colorado, Georgia and South Carolina and set up tables in public spaces in low-income areas, such as bus stops, dollar stores and street corners, to target Medicaid beneficiaries. The Freedom marketers falsely advertised they were screening for cancer and enticed Medicaid beneficiaries to provide DNA samples with up to $20.. The Freedom Defendants only obtained samples from those who had a Medicaid card. They would then pay a telemedicine company for a provider’s order for the CGX testing for that individual. The provider ordering the test did not have a treating relationship with the beneficiary. Premier Defendants conspired with the Freedom Defendants and were aware these providers’ orders and patient samples were obtained using kickbacks, in violation of the Anti-Kickback Statute. These claims were medically unnecessary because they were not the result of a valid test ordered by a patient’s treating provider. Further, patients never spoke to a provider and most never received the results of their tests.
For their roles in the scheme, Robert Alan Richardson, individually and on behalf of Freedom Medical, signed a consent judgment for $8 million, as did Edward Burch. They resolved the Governments’ claims for lesser amounts based on their ability to pay. As part of the resolution, Richardson and Burch admitted to certain conduct. Freedom Medical agreed to a period of exclusion from federal healthcare programs for a period of seven years. Richardson and Burch previously pleaded guilty for similar conduct related to their referrals of cancer genetic tests to a lab in Tennessee.
Additionally, the Governments resolved their case against former Vice President of Compliance for Premier Medical, Michael Conroy. Michael Conroy admitted that he assisted in Premier Medical’s and Freedom Medical’s efforts to target certain Medicaid beneficiaries by shipping collection kits to marketers in the target states, by running eligibility checks on beneficiaries, and by coordinating directly with a telemedicine group to obtain the physician orders. Conroy represents he was directed to do these things by Premier Medical’s owner, Kevin Murdock. To resolve the allegations against him, Michael Conroy paid $15,000 and he agreed to a three-year period of exclusion from federal health care programs.
Under the False Claims Act and state analogues, the Governments are entitled to treble damages plus penalties. All said, the Governments resolved this cancer genetic testing scheme against all defendants for more than $114 million in judgments and settlements. This scheme cost the Georgia Medicaid program $7,071,860.04, the Colorado Medicaid program $6,581,567.19, and the South Carolina Medicaid program $118,803.44.
“This is a significant victory in the fight against fraud, waste, and abuse in our state and nation,” said U.S. Attorney Bryan Stirling for the District of South Carolina. “Health care fraud is pervasive, and taxpayers should not be funding it. Without strong enforcement, it has the potential to cripple an overburdened system and to drain resources from the legitimate health care needs of elderly and disadvantaged Americans. The scheme perpetuated by the defendants in this case was fueled by greed and kickbacks, which have no place in health care. We will continue to invest all available resources, including by collaborating with other states, to protect our health care system and to hold accountable those who engage in this type of egregious fraud.”
"Health care executives who submit fraudulent claims to Medicaid undermine a valuable health care program intended to care for some of the most vulnerable populations in our country,” said Special Agent in Charge Kelly J. Blackmon with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General. “This settlement demonstrates our steadfast commitment to safeguarding the integrity of taxpayer-funded health care programs like Medicaid as well as the well-being of enrollees who depend on those programs. We will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to use all the tools in our arsenal to hold those who steal from the American public accountable.”
“We’re committed to stopping scams that target our most vulnerable Georgians and play into fears about serious diseases such as cancer,” said Georgia Attorney General Chris Carr. “This type of fraud and abuse will not be tolerated in our state, and we will continue to uphold the integrity of Georgia’s Medicaid program while protecting taxpayer dollars.”
"Medicaid fraud undermines the integrity of our healthcare system, harming both patients and taxpayers. Its existence cannot be tolerated. These recent civil judgments highlight the importance of stringent oversight and enforcement. Collaborating with state and federal partners on these endeavors is essential for safeguarding public health and ensuring that resources are directed where they are truly needed,” said South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson. “We must remain vigilant in our efforts to root out fraud, waste, and abuse, holding accountable those who seek to exploit our healthcare system for personal gain."
The judgment includes the resolution of claims brought under the qui tam or whistleblower provisions of the False Claims Act by Karen Mathewson, a former employee of Premier Medical. Under those provisions, a private party can file an action on behalf of the United States and receive a portion of any recovery. The qui tam case is captioned United States ex rel. Mathewson v. Premier Medical, Inc., 6:18-cv-00165-TMC (D.S.C.).
The resolution obtained in this matter was the result of a coordinated effort between the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of South Carolina and the Attorneys General Offices of Georgia, Colorado, and South Carolina, with assistance from the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General and the Defense Criminal Investigative Service.
The investigation and resolution of this matter illustrates the government’s emphasis on combating healthcare fraud. One of the most powerful tools in this effort is the False Claims Act. Tips and complaints from all sources about potential fraud, waste, abuse, and mismanagement can be reported to the Department of Health and Human Services at 800-HHS-TIPS (800-447-8477).
The matter was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Beth Warren and Nancy Cote of the District of South Carolina, Senior Assistant AG Sara Vann and Assistant AG James Champlin of the Georgia Attorney General’s Office, Assistant AGs Lauren Jones and Hannah Perng, with support from Attorney Fellow Alison Noon, from the Colorado Attorney General’s Office, and Assistant Deputy AGs Stephanie Opet and Brandon Steen of the South Carolina Attorney General’s Office.
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United States Files Complaint Against Myrtle Beach Office Furniture Supplier, Owner for Customs FraudRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, S.C. — The United States has filed a complaint against Global Office Furniture, LLC (GOF) and its owner Malcom E. Smith alleging that they violated the False Claims Act by knowingly and improperly underpaying customs duties owed on imported office chairs. GOF, located in Myrtle Beach, imports and sells office furniture manufactured overseas in the People’s Republic of China.
The United States’ complaint alleges that the defendants, in coordination with a Chinese manufacturer, engaged in a scheme to fraudulently avoid or decrease the payment of customs duties owed to the United States for merchandise imported between 2019 and 2023. The defendants allegedly employed a double-invoicing scheme by submitting false entry summaries and invoices to U.S. Customs and Border Protection that undervalued imported office chairs, thereby reducing the duties paid on the merchandise. The government further alleges that the defendants undertook efforts to destroy evidence of their fraudulent scheme after they were informed that the government was investigating their practices.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Austin McCullough and James Leventis are handling the matter, with assistance provided by U.S. Customs and Border Protection and Homeland Security Investigations. The case is United States ex rel. Joyce v. Global Office Furniture, LLC, et al., No. 2:20-cv-01223-DCN.
The claims asserted by the United States are allegations only, and there has been no determination of liability.
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Ladson Man Sentenced to 19 Years Federal Prison for Attempted Online Enticement of a MinorRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, S.C. — Joseph Daniel Bair, 40, of Ladson, has been sentenced to 19 years in federal prison for the attempted online enticement of a minor to engage in sexual activity.
Evidence obtained in the investigation showed that in early November 2021, members of the South Carolina Attorney General’s Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force (ICAC) conducted an undercover investigation targeting online sexual offenders. As part of this investigation, an officer created an undercover online persona of a 13-year-old girl.
Bair responded to the undercover officer’s online persona’s social media ad and engaged in sexually explicit conversations with the undercover officer. In their conversations, Bair discussed his desire to engage in various sex acts with the purported 13-year-old girl. On Dec. 5, 2021, Bair drove from Ladson to a predetermined location in Charleston County to meet the girl, and to engage in illicit sexual conduct with her. When Bair arrived, he encountered law enforcement officers instead and was placed under arrest.
At the time of the offense, Bair was on the South Carolina Sex Offender Registry based on a 2009 state conviction for criminal solicitation of a minor. Law enforcement officers also discovered that Bair was reporting to sex offender registry officials that he lived in Charleston when in fact he lived in Ladson.
United States District Judge Bruce Howe Hendricks sentenced Bair to 230 months imprisonment, to be followed by a lifetime term of court-ordered supervision. There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the U.S. Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals, who sexually exploit children, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit http://www.justice.gov/psc.
This case was investigated by the South Carolina Attorney General’s Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force (ICAC), including the Department of Homeland Security, Mount Pleasant Police Department, and Charleston Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Dean H. Secor is prosecuting the case.
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Lexington Man Sentenced to 15 Years in Federal Prison for Distribution of Meth, Repeat Gun ChargeRead the Press Release
COLUMBIA, S.C. — Curtis Hill, III, 36, of Columbia, has been sentenced to 15 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to drug conspiracy and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
Evidence obtained in the investigation revealed that on three different occasions, Hill sold methamphetamine to confidential sources. On one of these occasions, Hill was in possession of firearms. In a separate incident, following these drug buys, Hill ran from officers following a traffic stop, where he tossed methamphetamine during the chase. These drugs were ultimately recovered by law enforcement and a firearm was found in his vehicle.
At the time of these offenses, Hill was on federal supervised release. Hill has previous convictions for assault and battery, common law robbery, assault battery of a high and aggravated nature, and a federal conviction for being a felon in possession of a firearm.
United States District Judge Sherri A. Lydon sentenced Hill to 180 months imprisonment, to be followed by a five-year term of court-ordered supervision. There is no parole in the federal system. Judge Lydon further sentenced him to 24 months imprisonment for violation of his supervised release, which is to run concurrent with his 15-year sentence.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Homeland Security Investigations, the West Columbia Police Department, and the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Elle E. Klein is prosecuting the case.
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Federal Grand Jury Indicts 4 in Sex Trafficking RingRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, S.C. — A federal grand jury in Columbia returned a 15-count indictment against four individuals from the Charleston area in connection with sex trafficking. The charges stem from an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations and the Charleston Police Department that uncovered sex trafficking, money laundering, conspiracy offenses, and related charges.
The individuals charged include:
- Johnathan Dais, 33, of Charleston, for conspiracy to commit sex trafficking; sex trafficking by force, fraud or coercion; attempted sex trafficking of a child; use of a facility of interstate commerce to promote an unlawful activity; false statements; conspiracy to commit money laundering; and money laundering.
- Calvin Wolfe, 54, of Charleston, for conspiracy to commit sex trafficking and sex trafficking by force, fraud, or coercion.
- Rose Stoner a/k/a Rose Wolfe, 50, of Charleston, for conspiracy to commit sex trafficking and sex trafficking by force, fraud, or coercion.
- Alexis McInnis, 20, of Charleston, for use of a facility of interstate commerce to promote an unlawful activity; false statements; and conspiracy to commit money laundering.
The indictment alleges that between 2016 and 2025, Dais, and at times his co-conspirators, Wolfe and Stoner a/k/a Wolfe, recruited, enticed, harbored, transported, and sex trafficked at least five victims by force, fraud, or coercion, including one minor victim. The indictment also alleges Dais and McInnis used facilities of interstate commerce to promote prostitution activity, and that they each made false statements to law enforcement during the investigation. Dais and McInnis are also charged with laundering the funds derived from such unlawful activities.
Sex trafficking carries a maximum penalty of life in prison and money laundering carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison.
Johnathan Dais, Calvin Wolfe, and Rose Stoner a/k/a Wolfe are currently detained pending trial, and Alexis McInnis was granted a $5,000 unsecured bond on July 7 by the Honorable Molly Cherry.
Authorities with Homeland Security Investigations and the Charleston Police Department are seeking information that may help identify additional victims exploited by these individuals. If you, or someone you know, was a victim, please provide a name and contact information to the following email address, with subject line referencing Johnathan Dais: [email protected].
The case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and the Charleston Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Katherine Orville is prosecuting the case.
All charges in the indictment are merely accusations and defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Doc Antle, Owner of Myrtle Beach Safari, Sentenced for Federal Wildlife Trafficking and Money Laundering ChargesRead the Press Release
Bhagavan “Doc” Antle, of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina — who was featured in a popular Netflix documentary — was sentenced today to 12 months in prison after pleading guilty to a conspiracy to violate the Lacey Act and launder more than $500,000 for what he believed to be an operation to smuggle illegal immigrants into the United States across the Mexico border. Antle was also ordered to pay a $55,000 fine, serve three years of supervised release, and forfeit three chimpanzees and more than $197,000 to the government.
Two of Antle’s co-defendants were recently sentenced for their separate involvement in either the Lacey Act or money laundering conspiracy. A defendant in a related case recently pleaded guilty to illegally selling a newborn chimpanzee to Antle.
“Today’s sentence holds Doc Antle and his co-defendants accountable for activity they knew was unlawful and unethical,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Adam Gustafson of the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division (ENRD). “They illegally purchased and sold newborn endangered wildlife even as they laundered more than $500,000 in smuggling money — all while promoting themselves as conservationists.”
“Doc Antle portrayed himself as a conservationist. But in reality, he was a key player in the illegal chimpanzee trade, and he laundered more than half a million dollars through a complex web of deceit,” said U.S. Attorney Bryan Stirling for the District of South Carolina. “We are grateful to our law enforcement partners for their work in bringing the defendant to justice for both of these federal crimes.”
“These sentences should send a clear message: the FBI and our partners will not tolerate those who attempt to violate our laws,” said Special Agent in Charge Kevin Moore of the FBI Columbia Field Office. “We remain firmly committed to investigating and holding accountable individuals whose illegal actions threaten our financial systems and put protected species at risk.”
“This case underscores the grave criminal threat posed by wildlife traffickers who not only exploit vulnerable species for profit but also use sophisticated money laundering tactics to conceal their crimes,” said Assistant Director Douglas Ault of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Office of Law Enforcement. “Our special agents uncovered a complex network of illicit activity involving the trafficking of endangered animals — including baby chimpanzees and cheetahs — falsified documentation, and the laundering of hundreds of thousands of dollars through purported nonprofit organizations. These traffickers operated under the false pretense of conservation, betraying both the law and public trust. We remain unwavering in our commitment to dismantling such networks and bringing those responsible to justice.”
The wildlife conspiracy outlined various schemes Antle used to hide his illegal trafficking in endangered species, including requiring payments to be “donations” funneled through his non-profit, The Rare Species Fund; conducting transactions in bulk cash to hide their true nature; and creating false paperwork to hide the illegality of his wildlife transactions. The animals trafficked included baby chimpanzees, cheetahs, lions, and tigers, all of which are protected under both the Endangered Species Act and international treaties. The Lacey Act prohibits trafficking of illegally taken wildlife, fish or plants, including animals protected under the Endangered Species Act.
Antle’s co-defendant in the wildlife conspiracy, Jason Clay, was recently sentenced to four months in prison, four months home confinement, and to pay a $4,000 fine into the Lacey Act Reward Fund. In 2019, Clay illegally sold a juvenile chimpanzee to Antle in exchange for $200,000 in cash and a juvenile gibbon.
As for the money laundering conspiracy, Antle and a co-defendant laundered more than $500,000 in cash between February and April 2022 that were represented to be proceeds from an operation to smuggle illegal immigrants across the Mexican border into the United States. Evidence presented to the court showed that Antle planned to conceal the cash he received by writing checks for what appeared to be construction-related services for Myrtle Beach Safari, which he owned and operated, and which was featured in the Netflix documentary. The Myrtle Beach Safari is a 50-acre for-profit zoo that offers tours and private encounters with exotic wildlife.
Antle’s co-defendant in the money laundering conspiracy, Andrew Sawyer, was recently sentenced to serve two years of probation including eight months of home detention. He also forfeited nearly $185,000 to the government and a chimpanzee.
In a different Lacey Act violation case connected to Antle, Shaylynn Kolwyck-Peterson pleaded guilty last month to illegally selling a chimpanzee to Antle in 2022 for $200,000. The Kolwyck family owns and manages the private Sunshine Zoological Preserve LLC in north Florida. The facility is believed to be the only one in the United States breeding chimpanzees for private or non-scientific purposes.
The FBI and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service investigated the case.
Senior Trial Attorney Patrick M. Duggan of ENRD’s Environmental Crimes Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Amy Bower for the District of South Carolina prosecuted the case.
Massachusetts Man Pleads Guilty to Cyberstalking South Carolina Federal Agent and FamilyRead the Press Release
COLUMBIA, S.C. — Scott Robert Tardy, 31, of Holyoke, Massachusetts, has pleaded guilty to cyberstalking, providing false statements to the FBI, and obstruction of justice in a scheme that targeted a South Carolina federal law enforcement agent and his family.
According to evidence presented in court, in February, Tardy operated an account with the username “connecticut12345” on the Kik social media platform in which he joined an anti-law enforcement chatgroup. In that group, Tardy posted numerous messages discussing and soliciting violence against a specific agent and the agent’s spouse.
In those messages, Tardy repeatedly identified the victims’ employment affiliation as a reason to target them. He also shared photographs of the agent’s spouse and the city and state in which they live. Tardy discussed violence against the agent and the agent’s family, including throwing a Molotov cocktail in their bedroom while they were sleeping. He asked for the conversation to be moved to the Telegram platform, where he operated the username “slimybanana,” because he believed it was more secure.
On the second platform, Tardy discussed what a cartel would do to the victims, he discussed having one of the victims “ruined,” “destroyed,” and “tortured for days.” He said burning the house was “good enough” if the victim was inside. Tardy then shared the location of the victims’ home by sharing a map with a pin drop on the victims’ street, and asked another user how long it would take them to get there.
When the FBI executed a federal search warrant at Tardy’s apartment on Feb. 16, he falsely denied ever using Kik or Telegram and he denied responsibility for the solicitations and messages. He gave further false statements in an interview with investigators, and he caused the phone he used to be reset, clearing its content, and exchanged with Apple for a new phone.
Despite that, investigators recovered the map of the victims’ home with the pin drop on it from an account associated with Tardy. Data related to the Kik and Telegram accounts showed that Tardy controlled the accounts. During the scheme, Tardy worked as a corrections officer at a detention facility in Connecticut.
Tardy faces a penalty of up to 20 years in prison. He also faces a fine of up to $250,000 and five years of supervision by the U.S. Probation Office to follow a term of imprisonment.
United States District Judge Joseph F. Anderson, Jr. accepted Tardy’s guilty plea and will sentence the defendant after receiving and reviewing a sentencing report prepared by the U.S. Probation Office.
The case was investigated by the FBI Columbia field office with critical assistance from FBI Boston field office. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Elliott B. Daniels and Elle E. Klein are prosecuting the case.
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S.C. Cases Among Hundreds Announced in National Health Care Fraud TakedownRead the Press Release
COLUMBIA, S.C. — Two South Carolina cases are among hundreds of criminal charges against defendants in connection with alleged schemes to defraud American health care systems. The charges filed in federal court are part of the Department of Justice’s 2025 National Health Care Fraud Takedown, the largest DOJ health care fraud takedown in history.
“Health care fraud steals from the American taxpayer and harms the systems meant to serve those in need,” said U.S. Attorney Bryan Stirling for the District of South Carolina. “The cases in South Carolina, like those nationwide, demonstrate our unwavering commitment to protecting vulnerable citizens, especially our veterans, and ensuring the integrity of programs designed to care for them.”
“This record-setting Health Care Fraud Takedown delivers justice to criminal actors who prey upon our most vulnerable citizens and steal from hardworking American taxpayers,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “Make no mistake – this administration will not tolerate criminals who line their pockets with taxpayer dollars while endangering the health and safety of our communities.”
The charges announced today are part of a strategically coordinated, nationwide law enforcement action that resulted in criminal charges against 324 defendants for their alleged participation in health care fraud and illegal drug diversion schemes that involved the submission of over $14.6 billion in alleged false billings and over 15 million pills of illegally diverted controlled substances. The defendants allegedly defrauded programs entrusted for the care of the elderly and disabled to line their own pockets, and the Government, in connection with the takedown, seized over $245 million in cash, luxury vehicles, and other assets.
The following individuals were charged in the District of South Carolina:
- Tina Marie Armstrong, 67, of Florence, South Carolina, was charged by superseding indictment with health care fraud and aggravated identity theft in connection with a scheme to submit false and fraudulent claims to Medicare and Medicaid for durable medical equipment that was no longer in service, never delivered, or that had not been authorized by a physician. As alleged in the superseding indictment, Armstrong, through her company Safe at Home Medical Equipment and Supplies, LLC, submitted $198,981.55 in false and fraudulent claims, of which $104,577.74 were paid. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Winston Holliday of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of South Carolina.
- Dee Alice Moton, 51, of Hephzibah, Georgia, was charged by indictment with health care fraud in connection with a scheme where Moton billed the Veterans Administration for services not rendered to veterans in the amount of $2,373,147.22 over a two-year period. Moton, a licensed massage therapist, owned and operated a massage therapy business in Aiken, South Carolina called Flowing Hands Massage Clinical Therapy. As alleged in the indictment, Moton consistently billed veterans for services that were not rendered, such as multiple mutually exclusive evaluation and management codes, telehealth codes when in-person services were rendered, and specialized services she was not authorized to render or treatments for ailments veterans did not have or could not have received, for example, wheelchair therapy for a veteran who does not use a wheelchair. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Scott Matthews and Amy Bower of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of South Carolina.
Today’s Takedown was led and coordinated by the Health Care Fraud Unit of the Department of Justice Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and its core partners from U.S. Attorneys’ Offices, the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). The cases were investigated by agents from HHS-OIG, FBI, DEA, and other federal and state law enforcement agencies. The cases are being prosecuted by Health Care Fraud Strike Force teams from the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section, 50 U.S. Attorneys’ Offices nationwide, and 12 State Attorneys General Offices.
A complaint, information, or indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Atlanta Men who Robbed Greenville Jewelry Store Sentenced to Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
GREENVILLE, S.C. — Two Atlanta men have been sentenced to federal prison for the armed robbery of a Greenville jewelry store. Tony Nico Clark, 35, was sentenced to nine years and Dedrek Jaquon Hale, 30, was sentenced to nine-and-a-half years.
Evidence obtained in the investigation showed that on the afternoon of May 17, 2023, three men robbed a jewelry store located in Greenville. The robbery began when Clark, who was not wearing a mask, approached the door to the store that was locked between guests and was allowed in. Clark then held the door for two masked men, who rushed into the store brandishing handguns and ordering the employees and customers to the floor.
One of the masked men, who remains unidentified, broke display cases using a hammer, while Hale used his handgun to smash the glass on the cases. Surveillance footage showed the men pointing their guns at employees and customers as they snatched jewelry from the broken cases. Clark stood nearby calmly calling out the time remaining before the men needed to exit the store. The robbers fled in a waiting car and returned to the Atlanta area.
Through careful investigation, law enforcement was able to tie Clark and Hale to the robbery using DNA and other physical evidence. Clark and Hale were arrested in October of 2024 and, in March of this year, pleaded guilty to robbery and conspiracy to commit robbery affecting interstate commerce and to using firearms in furtherance of a violent crime.
United States District Judge Jacquelyn D. Austin sentenced Clark to 110 months imprisonment, and sentenced Hale to 115 months imprisonment, with both sentences to be followed by five-year terms of court-ordered supervision. There is no parole in the federal system. The court also ordered each defendant to make restitution of over $140,000.
The investigation was led by the FBI Columbia field office, with assistance from the Greenville County Sheriff’s Office and the Greenville Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Chris Schoen is prosecuting the case.
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Repeat Felony Offender Convicted at Trial for Gun PossessionRead the Press Release
COLUMBIA, S.C. — A federal jury in Columbia has convicted Yashawnus Leekean Patterson, 44, of Columbia, of being a felon in possession of a firearm after a two-day trial.
Evidence presented at trial included testimony and body worn camera footage showing two Columbia Police Department officers responding to a hotel in downtown Columbia to assist in removing Patterson, who was no longer staying at that hotel. After being asked to place Patterson on trespass notice, officers learned he was wanted on a bench warrant from the Cayce Police Department, and he was arrested. During a search of his person, officers located a loaded 9mm pistol in the front of his waistband, a 30-round extended magazine in his backpack, and a total of 74 rounds of 9mm ammunition among his person and his other belongings. Patterson acknowledged to officers that he knew he was not legally allowed to possess a firearm.
Patterson has an extensive record of felony convictions dating back to 1998, including convictions for criminal sexual conduct with a minor, strong-arm robbery, and assault and battery of a high and aggravated nature.
United States District Judge Mary Geiger Lewis presided over the trial and will sentence Patterson after receiving and reviewing a sentencing report prepared by the U.S. Probation Office. Patterson faces a maximum penalty of 15 years in federal prison. He also faces a fine of up to $250,000, restitution, and three years of supervision to follow the term of imprisonment.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Columbia Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Matthew Sanford and Elizabeth Major are prosecuting the case.
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Nation’s Largest Property Management Company to Pay over $1.4M for Unlawful Charges on Military ServicemembersRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON — The Justice Department announced today that Greystar Management Services LLC will pay over $1.4 million to resolve allegations that it violated the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) when it imposed illegal fees on military servicemembers who terminated their leases after receiving military relocation orders.
The Department alleged that Greystar, the nation’s largest property management company with over 800,000 housing units under management, relied on software that it knew would automatically impose early termination charges on SCRA-protected servicemembers.
Greystar will set aside $1.35 million to pay affected military members and their co-tenants and will pay a $77,370 civil penalty. Greystar will pay triple damages to the servicemembers who paid the early termination charges. The company will also make changes to its policies and training, including adopting SCRA-compliant software and forms at all its properties.
“We honor the service and sacrifices of our military by defending their rights under the law,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “We are aggressively enforcing all laws, including the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act, to protect our military servicemembers and veterans.”
“America’s servicemembers devote their lives to defending our nation and must be able to do so without undue burdens,” said U.S. Attorney Bryan Stirling for the District of South Carolina. “The Servicemembers Civil Relief Act protects our military families from unfair hardships such as penalties for terminating a housing lease to fulfill military orders. We will continue to defend and support those who keep our country safe.”
The Department’s enforcement of the SCRA is conducted by the Civil Rights Division’s Housing and Civil Enforcement Section in partnership with U.S. Attorneys’ Offices throughout the country. Since 2011, the Department has obtained over $483 million in monetary relief for over 148,000 servicemembers through its enforcement of the SCRA. For more information about the department’s SCRA enforcement efforts, please visit www.servicemembers.gov.
Servicemembers and their dependents who believe that their rights under the SCRA may have been violated should contact the nearest Armed Forces Legal Assistance Program Office. Office locations can be found at legalassistance.law.af.mil.
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Nation’s Largest Property Management Company to Pay over $1.4M for Unlawful Charges on Military ServicemembersRead the Press Release
The Justice Department announced today that Greystar Management Services LLC will pay over $1.4 million to resolve allegations that it violated the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) when it imposed illegal fees on military servicemembers who terminated their leases after receiving military relocation orders.
The Department alleged that Greystar, the nation’s largest property management company with over 800,000 housing units under management, relied on software that it knew would automatically impose early termination charges on SCRA-protected servicemembers.
Greystar will set aside $1.35 million to pay affected military members and their co-tenants and will pay a $77,370 civil penalty. Greystar will pay triple damages to the servicemembers who paid the early termination charges. The company will also make changes to its policies and training, including adopting SCRA-compliant software and forms at all its properties.
“We honor the service and sacrifices of our military by defending their rights under the law,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “We are aggressively enforcing all laws, including the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act, to protect our military servicemembers and veterans.”
“America’s servicemembers devote their lives to defending our nation and must be able to do so without undue burdens,” said U.S. Attorney Bryan Stirling for the District of South Carolina. “The Servicemembers Civil Relief Act protects our military families from unfair hardships such as penalties for terminating a housing lease to fulfill military orders. We will continue to defend and support those who keep our country safe.”
The Department’s enforcement of the SCRA is conducted by the Civil Rights Division’s Housing and Civil Enforcement Section in partnership with U.S. Attorneys’ Offices throughout the country. Since 2011, the Department has obtained over $483 million in monetary relief for over 148,000 servicemembers through its enforcement of the SCRA. For more information about the department’s SCRA enforcement efforts, please visit www.servicemembers.gov.
Servicemembers and their dependents who believe that their rights under the SCRA may have been violated should contact the nearest Armed Forces Legal Assistance Program Office. Office locations can be found at legalassistance.law.af.mil.
Greer Woman Sentenced to Federal Prison, Ordered to Pay $2M in RestitutionRead the Press Release
GREENVILLE, S.C. — Jennifer L. Bengston Cook, 56, of Greer, was sentenced to three years in federal prison after pleading guilty to wire fraud. She was also ordered to pay $2.2 million in restitution.
According to statements made in court, Cook was a part-time bookkeeper for a small business in Duncan for more than a decade. During her employment she wrote checks to herself from the company’s bank accounts without permission and deposited them into her personal bank account. To disguise her theft, in the business’ ledger she listed the checks as void, and in QuickBooks she listed the checks as either void, paid to other employees, or paid to vendors. On the memo line of some of the checks, she wrote it was for payroll and listed the payroll dates. In some instances, she paid herself three payroll checks for the same pay period. On some checks, she wrote on the memo line that it was a reimbursement. Cook also used the company's bank account to pay her personal credit card bills.
The criminal conduct was discovered when Cook was on vacation and her supervisor needed to find a record of a vendor payment. After the discovery, Cook's employment was terminated, and law enforcement was notified. She was charged with multiple counts of wire fraud in federal court.
U.S. District Judge Jacquelin D. Austin presided over the case and sentenced Cook to 36 months in federal prison and ordered her to pay $2,276,830.09 in restitution. There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was investigated by the FBI Columbia Field Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Bill Watkins handled this prosecution.
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Fort Mill Man Sentenced for Illegally Possessing a FirearmRead the Press Release
COLUMBIA, S.C. — Cederick Dion Dixon, 38, of Fort Mill, has been sentenced to more than seven years in federal prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm.
Evidence obtained in the investigation revealed that on Jan. 15, 2023, a South Carolina Highway Patrol state trooper initiated a traffic stop on a vehicle for a defective equipment violation. He identified the driver and sole occupant as Dixon. Dixon admitted that his license was suspended and a records check revealed that his driver’s license was suspended as a habitual traffic offender. Dixon was arrested and a search of the vehicle uncovered a small baggie of marijuana in the driver’s side door handle along with an open bottle of liquor in the backseat. Inside of a backpack in the front seat, troopers found a firearm along with 9mm ammunition, and an assortment of narcotics.
Dixon is prohibited from possessing a firearm and ammunition due to prior convictions for attempted armed robbery, unlawful carrying of a weapon, distribution of crack cocaine, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
United States District Judge Mary Geiger Lewis sentenced Dixon to 87 months imprisonment, to be followed by a three-year term of court-ordered supervision. There is no parole in the federal system.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
This case was investigated by Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the South Carolina Highway Patrol. Assistant U.S. Attorney William K. Witherspoon is prosecuting the case.
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Man Who Fatally Shot SLED K9 Sentenced to over 12 Years for Gun ChargeRead the Press Release
COLUMBIA, S.C. —James Robert Peterson, 38, of Prosperity, has been sentenced to more than 12 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm.
Evidence obtained in the investigation revealed that on June 11, 2024, Peterson was found in possession of a firearm while law enforcement attempted to arrest him on a felony state warrant. He has prior convictions that prohibit him from possessing firearms. Peterson used the gun to fatally shoot South Carolina Law Enforcement Division K9 Officer Coba during the incident.
United States District Judge Jacquelyn D. Austin sentenced Peterson to 150 months imprisonment, to be followed by a term of court-ordered supervision. There is no parole in the federal system. Peterson was sentenced to 33 years in state prison earlier this year for first-degree burglary, attempted murder, cruelty to a police dog, and resisting arrest with a deadly weapon.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department, and the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division. Assistant U.S. Attorney Elle E. Klein is prosecuting the case.
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Man Sentenced to 25 Years for Leading a 250 Kilogram Meth Trafficking Ring from PrisonRead the Press Release
SPARTANBURG, S.C. — Jonathan Adam Sarratt, 38, an inmate incarcerated in the South Carolina Department of Corrections, was sentenced to 25 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. Sarratt has been serving a sentence for trafficking methamphetamine, burglary, and possession of a stolen vehicle since 2019.
Evidence obtained in the investigation revealed that since at least early 2023, Sarratt, while incarcerated in SCDC, was facilitating the distribution of at least 250 kilograms of methamphetamine to a drug trafficking ring within the Upstate.
United States District Judge Donald C. Coggins sentenced Sarratt to 300 months of incarceration consecutive to the state sentence he is currently serving and a five-year term of supervision following his release. Sarratt is projected to be released from SCDC in 2026. Additionally, the Court ordered a judgment against the defendant for $1 million. United States District Judge Donald C. Coggins has already sentenced Sarratt’s co-defendantswith the final co-defendant, Daniel Wentz, awaiting sentencing.
This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations– Border Enforcement Security Task Force, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division, the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office, the Spartanburg County Sheriff’s Office, the Greenville County Sheriff’s Office, and the Greenville County Multi-Jurisdictional Drug Enforcement Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jamie Schoen is prosecuting the case
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Midlands Men Sentenced for Injuring Officers During Riot on May 2020Read the Press Release
COLUMBIA, S.C. — Brandon Jemar Pickett, 38, of Cayce and Luis Rosario, 29, of Columbia, have been sentenced to four years and one year and one day, respectively, in federal prison for interfering with law enforcement officers during civil disorder.
Evidence obtained in the investigation revealed that on May 30, 2020, organizers held a peaceful protest at the South Carolina State House to protest the death of George Floyd. After the protest, some individuals continued protesting at the City of Columbia Police Department. However, the protest turned into a violent riot when multiple individuals began throwing objects at police officers, destroying property, and setting police cars on fire.
During the riot, Brandon Pickett picked up a large rock and threw it at a police officer causing the officer to suffer a chipped tibia. Rosario threw water bottles with an unknown substance at officers and picked up a wooden barricade and threw it at an officer resulting in a head injury requiring seven stitches.
Pickett has prior convictions for assault with intent to kill, failure to stop for a blue light, and attempted burglary. Rosario has no prior convictions.
United States District Judge Mary Geiger Lewis sentenced Pickett to 48 months imprisonment, to be followed by a two-year term of court-ordered supervision. Judge Lewis sentenced Rosario to one year and one day followed by a two-year term of court-ordered supervision. There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was investigated by the FBI Columbia Field Office, the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division, and the Columbia Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Lamar Fyall is prosecuting the case.
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Kershaw County Man Sentence to Federal Prison for Illegally Possessing a FirearmRead the Press Release
COLUMBIA, S.C. — Frederick Siou Beaufort, 41, of Camden has been sentenced to more than two years in federal prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm.
Evidence obtained in the investigation revealed that on Sept. 3, 2023, a Kershaw County sheriff’s deputy saw Beaufort driving his car while not wearing a seatbelt. The deputy conducted a traffic stop on the car and while speaking with Beaufort, the deputy spotted a large hand-rolled cigarette sitting on the front passenger seat. The officer asked him what the item was, and he stated it was a “blunt,” a street name for a marijuana cigarette. As the deputy searched the car, he located a handgun under the driver’s side floor mat. Beaufort stated he did not have a concealed weapons permit and that he was a convicted felon.
At the time of his arrest, Beaufort had been convicted of possession with the intent to distribute marijuana, resisting arrest, distribution of crack cocaine and was out on bond for murder.
United States District Mary Geiger Lewis sentenced Beaufort to 27 months imprisonment, to be followed by a three-year term of court-ordered supervision. There is no parole in the federal system.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Kershaw County Sheriff’s Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney William K. Witherspoon is prosecuting the case.
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Columbia Man Sentenced to 15 Years in Federal Prison for Distribution of Meth, FentanylRead the Press Release
COLUMBIA, S.C. — Cedric Douglas Canzater, 43, of Columbia, has been sentenced to 15 years in federal prison for six counts of drug distributions of methamphetamine or fentanyl.
Evidence obtained in the investigation revealed that on six different occasions, Canzater sold over 550 grams of methamphetamine and 27 grams of fentanyl to a confidential source. Additionally, following an execution of a search warrant at one of the residences associated with his narcotics trafficking, law enforcement recovered firearms and drug trafficking paraphernalia. Canzater has previous federal convictions for being a felon in possession of a firearm and distribution of cocaine.
United States District Judge Cameron McGowan Currie sentenced Canzater to 180 months imprisonment, to be followed by a 10-year term of court-ordered supervision. There is no parole in the federal system.
This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
This case was investigated by Drug Enforcement Administration, the City of Columbia Police Department, and Richland County Sheriff’s Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Elle E. Klein is prosecuting the case.
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West Columbia Man Indicted for Distributing Child Sexual Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
COLUMBIA, S.C. — A federal grand jury in Greenville returned a 10-count indictment against Robert John May III, 38, of West Columbia, for distributing child sexual abuse material.*
According to court documents and statements made in court, in April 2024, the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children received a cyber-tip from the social messaging app Kik. Kik flagged several videos from the username “joebidennnn69” as containing child sexual abuse. Investigators connected the account to the home IP address and mobile device of May and identified at least 10 videos depicting child sexual abuse that were shared from the account.
May faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison with a minimum of five years, a fine of $250,000, and a term of at least five years of supervised release to follow any term of imprisonment.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the U.S. Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals, who sexually exploit children, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit http://www.justice.gov/psc.
The case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Scott Matthews and Dean Secor are prosecuting the case with Austin M. Berry of the Department of Justice’s Child Exploitation & Obscenity Section.
All charges in the indictment are merely accusations and defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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* The term “child pornography” is currently used in federal statutes and is defined as any visual depiction of sexually explicit conduct involving a person less than 18 years old. While this phrase still appears in federal law, “child sexual abuse material” is preferred, as it better reflects the abuse that is depicted in the images and videos and the resulting trauma to the child. The Associated Press Stylebook also discourages the use of the phrase “child pornography.”
Hopkins Man Pleads Guilty to Lying to Federal AuditorsRead the Press Release
COLUMBIA, S.C. —William Lee Grooms, Sr., 65, of Hopkins, has pleaded guilty to making a false representation to a federal agency.
Evidence obtained in the investigation revealed that Grooms was the Statewide Asset Manager for the South Carolina Department of Transportation Office of Public Transit (OPT). The OPT oversees government funding for public transportation in South Carolina, including rural and small urbanized areas, for programs aimed at assisting seniors and individuals with disabilities. The federal funds were distributed by the Federal Transit Administration (FTA), part of the United States Department of Transportation.
Every three years, the FTA conducts a review of state offices receiving its money. Part of that review concerns the “Buy America” program, which requires a certain percentage of each vehicle acquired to have been produced domestically. Also, the final assembly must occur in the United States. This certification should take place before purchase.
The collective goal of the OPT was to pass the review with zero deficiencies. The OPT staff realized during the review that they had not conducted the pre-award Buy America audits. To address the shortcoming, the OPT staff developed a scheme to back-date emails and certifications, a task taken on by Grooms. These falsified documents were then given to another staff member to upload to a shared website accessed by the FTA compliance review team.
“Our government functions best when those entrusted with its money operate with honesty and transparency,” said U.S. Attorney Bryan Stirling for the District of South Carolina. “This prosecution reinforces the bedrock principle that public service demands integrity.”
“Together with our law enforcement and prosecutorial partners, we remain firmly committed to safeguarding the integrity of the procurement process and enforcing compliance with federal program requirements,” said Joseph Harris, Special Agent in Charge, Department of Transportation Office of Inspector General, Southern Region. “Those entrusted with the stewardship of taxpayer dollars are expected to meet the highest standards and will be held accountable when they knowingly fall short.”
Grooms faces a maximum penalty of five years in federal prison. He also faces a fine of up to $250,000, restitution, and three years of supervision to follow the term of imprisonment. United States Senior District Judge Cameron McGowan Currie accepted the guilty plea and will sentence Grooms on Sept. 17, at 11 a.m.
This case was investigated by the United States Department of Transportation, Office of the Inspector General, and the South Carolina State Law Enforcement Division. Assistant U.S. Attorney Winston D. Holliday, Jr., is prosecuting the case.
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Florida Men Convicted after Cleaning Crew Locates More Than $30K of Cocaine in Hotel RoomRead the Press Release
MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. — A federal jury convicted Vincent Ellis Wilson, 54, and Ervin Lee Smith, 50, both of Fort Pierce, Florida, of conspiring to distribute more than 500 grams of cocaine and a quantity of crack cocaine after a two-day trial in Florence.
Evidence introduced at trial showed that during the evening hours of Feb. 25, 2021, Wilson and Smith checked in to an oceanfront hotel in Myrtle Beach. Wilson and Smith are both from Florida and they would later tell police that they were simply “passing through” Myrtle Beach when they had car trouble that required them to put their truck in a shop in Myrtle Beach. That night, however, they met with a local individual who agreed to serve as a middleman to help Wilson and Smith sell more than a half kilogram of cocaine and a small quantity of crack cocaine they had brought with them to South Carolina. The next morning, before the drug deal could be done, Wilson and Smith left their room to go to breakfast at a nearby restaurant. While they were gone, hotel staff, believing the room had been vacated, went in to clean the room and stumbled upon a grocery bag containing more than $30,000 worth of drugs in a dresser drawer. The hotel contacted Myrtle Beach Police who responded and collected the illicit substances. Later that morning, Wilson and Smith returned to the hotel to attempt to collect their belongs, including the drugs. Police interviewed them and they were released pending further investigation.
Through an ongoing partnership between the Myrtle Beach Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration, authorities were later able to connect this drug seizure to a much larger drug trafficking organization that was already under federal investigation. Once that connection was made, Wilson and Smith were charged by a federal grand jury with being suppliers to the drug trafficking organization. All the other defendants in the federal case pled guilty. Wilson and Smith denied their involvement, but were convicted after the jury heard the evidence of their involvement.
Court records show that Wilson has a prior state conviction for possession with intent to distribute narcotics in Maryland from 2003, and Smith has a prior federal conviction for possession with intent to distribute cocaine from 2004. U.S. District Judge Sherri A. Lydon presided over their trial and will sentence the two after reviewing a presentence report from the U.S. Probation Office. They each face a mandatory minimum sentence of five years in prison and may be sentenced up to the 40-year maximum.
"These defendants brought a significant quantity of cocaine and crack cocaine into South Carolina, intending to profit from its distribution,” said U.S. Attorney Bryan Stirling for the District of South Carolina. “Thanks to the diligent work of the Myrtle Beach Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration, what started as a hotel cleaning led to the dismantling of a larger drug trafficking operation. This conviction underscores our unwavering commitment to prosecuting individuals who bring dangerous narcotics into our communities."
“This case represents the continued commitment of the DEA to identify and hold accountable those who engage in the distribution of dangerous drugs,” said Jae W. Chung, the Acting Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Atlanta Division. “Keeping our communities safe is our highest priority.”
"The Myrtle Beach Police Department is fortunate to work with partners and community members to assist us holding those accountable who bring poison into our community,” said Myrtle Beach Police Chief Amy Prock. “Our mission has not and will not change, the safety of our community will always be our priority."
This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Myrtle Beach Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Everett McMillian and Department of Justice Trial Attorney Jasmin Salehi Fashami prosecuted the case in close coordination with the 15th Circuit Solicitor’s Office.
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Summerville Man Sentenced to 20 Years in Federal Prison for Weapon ViolationRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, S.C. — Mark Lee Frasier, 33, of Summerville, was sentenced to 20 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to being a in possession of a firearm and ammunition after a felony conviction.
Evidence presented in court showed that on Feb. 7, 2023, Charleston Police officers encountered Frasier while patrolling a high-crime area. He was parked in front of an abandoned building, and officers saw what appeared to be a bag of cocaine inside the vehicle. When Frasier noticed police, he fled in the car until he reached a dead-end street. Frasier ran but was quickly apprehended.
A search of the vehicle uncovered 9.31 grams of cocaine in the center console, 3.62 grams of crack cocaine on the driver’s floorboard, 15 methamphetamine pills, and a marijuana blunt. Officers also recovered a stolen .40 caliber pistol from the driver’s seat where Frasier had been sitting. Because of prior felony convictions, Frasier is prohibited under federal law from possessing firearms or ammunition. He was also eligible for a sentencing enhancement due to prior convictions for violent felonies or serious drug offenses.
At the time of this arrest, Frasier was out on bond for state charges including murder, attempted murder, domestic violence of a high and aggravated nature, possession of a firearm during a violent crime, and unlawful carrying of a pistol.
United States District Judge Bruce H. Hendricks sentenced Frasier to 20 years imprisonment as part of a negotiated agreement between the parties to be followed by five years of court ordered supervision. There is no parole in the federal system.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Charleston Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Chris Lietzow is prosecuting the case.
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Rock Hill Man Sentenced to 15 Years in Federal Prison for Fentanyl OffenseRead the Press Release
COLUMBIA, S.C. — Justin Lee Payne, 31, of Rock Hill, has been sentenced to 15 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to possession with intent to distribute fentanyl.
Evidence obtained in the investigation revealed that Payne was arrested by York County sheriff’s deputies for trafficking fentanyl. During the arrest, investigators executed a search warrant on Payne’s home and located more than 280 grams of fentanyl and 4 grams of methamphetamine.
United States District Mary Geiger Lewis sentenced Payne to 180 months imprisonment, to be followed by a four-year term of court-ordered supervision. There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was investigated by the York County Multi-Jurisdictional Drug Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorney Winston D. Holliday is prosecuting the case.
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Charleston Man Sentenced to 15 Years in Federal Prison for Weapon ViolationRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, S.C. — Claude Michael Barrs, 45, of Charleston, was sentenced to 15 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm.
Evidence presented in court showed that on September 29, 2023, Berkeley County sheriff’s deputies stopped Barrs after observing him driving erratically. During the stop, Barrs appeared extremely nervous and admitted that his license was suspended. When asked to exit the vehicle, he attempted to discreetly discard a bag on the ground. Deputies recovered the bag and found 6 grams of methamphetamine inside.
A search of the vehicle uncovered an additional 0.85 grams of methamphetamine under the driver’s seat and a 9mm pistol in the trunk. Barrs admitted the drugs and firearm belonged to him. As a convicted felon, he is prohibited under federal law from possessing firearms or ammunition. He was also eligible for a sentencing enhancement based on prior convictions for violent felonies or serious drug offenses.
At the time of this arrest, Barrs was out on bond for state charges of armed robbery, possession of a weapon during a violent crime, and possession of a weapon by a violent offender.
United States District Judge Bruce H. Hendricks sentenced Barrs to 180 imprisonment as part of a negotiated agreement between the parties to be followed by five years of court-ordered supervision. There is no parole in the federal system.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosive and Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Chris Lietzow is prosecuting the case.
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