Joint operation yields guns and drugs
The Darlington County Sheriff’s Office along with the Hartsville Police Department, the Chesterfield County Sheriff’s Office and the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division conducted a joint operation in the Hartsville area of Darlington County on the nights of March 9 and March 11 in response to recent shootings. The joint operation included agents saturating high crime areas, surveillance and serving a search warrant on Marlboro Ave. in Hartsville.
As a result of the joint operation on both nights a total of five firearms were seized including one high-powered rifle. Three individuals were charged with unlawful carry of a handgun. One individual was charged with felon in possession of a firearm. Thirteen individuals were charged with possession of drugs including marijuana, crack cocaine, and meth. Seven individuals were charged with drug distribution. Other charges included public disorderly conduct, trespassing, driving under suspension and unlawful liquor sales. Three bench warrants and two outstanding warrants were served. Gang literature and gang paraphernalia were found.
The Darlington County Sheriff’s Office, Hartsville Police Department, Chesterfield County Sheriff’s Office and SLED will continue to conduct joint operations. If you have any information regarding recent shootings you are asked to immediately contact Darlington County Sheriff’s Investigators at 843-398-4501 or Crime Stoppers of the Pee Dee at 1-888-CRIME-SC or text tip number 274637 (CRIMES). You do not have to reveal your identity to leave information.