Police officer arrested for misconduct and drugs
On Friday, February 17, 2023, agents with the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) charged Thomas “Trey” Franklin James III, 31 years old, of Darlington, with Misconduct in Office and Possession with Intent to Distribute Heroin.
The arrest warrants state that James did “willfully and unlawfully violate the law” when he did “purchase, possess and use a quantity of suspected heroin for personal use.”
A search of his department-issued vehicle turned up approximately 0.6 grams of heroin.
The information was corroborated by witness statements and James’ confession to SLED agents.
James was booked at the Glenn Campbell Detention Center and the case will be prosecuted by the 4th Circuit Solicitor’s Office.
According to Darlington City Manager John Payne, “The City is shocked by this information and arrest of Officer James. We do not tolerate this type of behavior, especially from a person sworn to uphold and enforce the law. The City of Darlington will fully cooperate with SLED and the 4th Circuit Solicitor’s Office in the investigation and prosecution of this case.”