Oconee County, SC – The Oconee County Sheriff’s Office has announced that 16 people have been arrested as part of a countywide drug round-up operation that began on October 1. The ongoing investigation targets individuals involved in methamphetamine, fentanyl, and prescription drug distribution across the region.
The Incident: Drug Round-Up Expands Across the County
According to a press release from the Oconee County Sheriff’s Office, deputies obtained 35 arrest warrants for 23 individuals following a series of controlled drug purchases conducted by undercover officers. The narcotics purchased during the sting included fentanyl, methamphetamine, and various prescription medications.
Officials said that the initiative is part of an ongoing countywide drug enforcement effort aimed at reducing illegal narcotics trafficking and addressing the public safety risks associated with fentanyl distribution.
“Our drug unit has worked tirelessly to bring these offenders to justice and protect our communities from dangerous narcotics,” an Oconee County spokesperson said.
Investigation and Evidence Collected
The drug investigation began earlier this month, with law enforcement teams executing warrants across multiple areas in the county. Undercover operations and surveillance efforts led to dozens of charges, including distribution, possession with intent to distribute, and trafficking offenses.
Deputies stated that additional suspects remain at large as officers continue to serve outstanding warrants.
Authorities confirmed that two new arrests were made on Thursday, furthering the progress of the month-long operation.
Arrests and Charges Filed
One of the most recent arrests was 47-year-old Susan Marie Smith of West Union, who was taken into custody on Playground Road. She faces two counts of distribution of methamphetamine, according to the sheriff’s office.
Smith was booked into the Oconee County Detention Center and was issued a $70,000 surety bond on Thursday.
During Smith’s arrest, deputies also encountered 23-year-old Susan Nicole Smith, who allegedly attempted to mislead officers by saying the suspect was not inside the home. Deputies later found Susan Marie Smith hiding in the same room.
Susan Nicole Smith was charged with accessory after the fact of a felony and taken to the Oconee County Detention Center, where she was released on a $10,000 surety bond.
Authorities say that more arrests are expected as the remaining suspects are located and taken into custody.
Community and Law Enforcement Response
The Oconee County Sheriff’s Office emphasized that the round-up is part of a broader narcotics suppression plan designed to disrupt drug distribution networks and increase community safety.
“These arrests are the result of coordinated efforts between our narcotics agents, patrol deputies, and community partners,” the sheriff’s office said. “We will continue pursuing those who endanger lives through the sale and distribution of illegal drugs.”
Community leaders have praised the department’s proactive approach, noting that fentanyl-related overdoses have become a growing concern in the region. The operation aligns with South Carolina’s statewide drug enforcement initiatives to curb addiction and prevent overdose deaths.
Ongoing Developments and Next Steps
The sheriff’s office confirmed that the investigation remains active and that additional warrants will be served in the coming days. Deputies continue to track the remaining suspects named in the initial 35 warrants.
Officials are encouraging residents with information about ongoing drug activity to contact the Oconee County Sheriff’s Office or Crime Stoppers.
As of Friday morning, 16 suspects have been arrested, and law enforcement anticipates more arrests to follow as the operation continues.
Conclusion
The Oconee County drug round-up marks another major step in the fight against narcotics in South Carolina. With 16 arrests made and more expected, local authorities remain committed to dismantling drug operations and keeping their communities safe.
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