Clover, South Carolina, September 24, 2025
News Summary
A significant drug bust in Clover, South Carolina, led to the arrest of ten men linked to gang activities. The York County Drug Enforcement Unit seized over 16 pounds of illegal drugs, including methamphetamine and cocaine, along with firearms. The operation, allegedly running from a local barber shop, highlights concerns over drug-related violence in the community. Law enforcement officials are committed to tackling the escalating crime rates stemming from this drug operation.
Clover, South Carolina has become the focal point of a significant drug bust that resulted in the arrest of ten men linked to gang activities. Following an extensive investigation led by the York County Multijurisdictional Drug Enforcement Unit, law enforcement officials seized over 16 pounds of illegal drugs, including more than 10 pounds of methamphetamine, fentanyl, and cocaine, as well as numerous firearms during the arrests on September 4.
The drug operation was allegedly run from a barber shop that also served as a convenience store in Clover. The investigation was initiated in February 2025 after residents raised concerns about drug-related activities in the area. It gained momentum following a violent incident in March, where a shooting occurred during a children’s baseball game.
Among those arrested, Aaron Jerome Floyd, 33, has been identified as a documented leader of the Bloods gang and is facing several charges, including drug trafficking. Frederic Stephens Jr., another suspect, was also arrested while out on bond related to serious felony charges in Charlotte, North Carolina. At least two of the individuals charged have previous pending charges in North Carolina, highlighting the cross-border implications of this case.
Law enforcement officials underscored the connection between the drug operation and a recent increase in violent crime in Clover. The York County Sheriff’s Office spokesman indicated that the activities of this drug ring contributed directly to the rise in violence in the community. Solicitor Kevin Brackett further clarified that drug dealing and violent crime often go “hand in hand,” reinforcing the necessity for rigorous law enforcement efforts in the area.
The operation reflects a collaborative effort among multiple law enforcement agencies, including the DEA and ATF, who aimed to tackle drug-related crime, especially near the North Carolina border. Clover Police Chief emphasized that the seizures contribute positively to the community’s safety, asserting that ongoing efforts would continue to target drug-related offenses.
The investigation revealed a total of 16 pounds of drugs seized from the operation throughout its duration. Authorities stated that one suspect remains at large after being released on bond in a separate case in Charlotte.
Clover, a small town with a population of less than 10,000, is not accustomed to such violent crime, making these events particularly alarming for residents. The ongoing situation has heightened community concerns about public safety and the influence of gang activities on local crime rates.
As authorities work to dismantle this drug ring, they strive to reassure the community that comprehensive measures are being implemented to combat drugs and violence, particularly given the unsettling incidents that have occurred, including gunfire during youth sporting events.
Summary of Key Points:
– Ten men charged following investigation into drug ring.
– Seizures included over 16 pounds of drugs and more than a dozen firearms.
– Drug operation allegedly operated from local barber shop/convenience store.
– Investigation prompted by community complaints and violent incidents.
– Connection to gang activities highlighted by law enforcement.
– Ongoing commitment to improve public safety in Clover and surrounding areas.
FAQ
What initiated the investigation in Clover?
The investigation began in February 2025 after community complaints about drug activity and escalated due to a shooting during a children’s baseball game in March.
What types of drugs were seized during the arrests?
Over 16 pounds of drugs were seized from the operation, including more than 10 pounds of methamphetamine, fentanyl, and cocaine.
How many men were charged in connection with the drug bust?
Ten men were charged following the investigation into the drug ring in Clover.
What connection does this drug operation have to gang activities?
Authorities linked the drug operation to increased violent crime in the area, with one of the suspects identified as a documented leader of the Bloods gang.
What measures are law enforcement taking to address public safety?
The sheriff vowed to continue targeting drug-related crime near the North Carolina border to enhance public safety.
Key Features of the Clover Drug Bust
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Clover, South Carolina |
| Number of Arrests | 10 men charged |
| Drugs Seized | Over 16 pounds (including methamphetamine, fentanyl, and cocaine) |
| Firearms Confiscated | More than a dozen firearms |
| Investigation Duration | Started in February 2025 |
| Primary Operation Site | Barber shop/convenience store |
| Community Safety Concerns | Increased violent crime linked to drug activities |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Tragic Weekend of Violence in York County
Top 10 Public Elementary Schools in South Carolina for 2025
Additional Resources
- WSOC TV: Clover Drug Bust
- Herald Online: Clover Arrests
- WBTV: York County Drug Operation
- CoastTV: Millsboro Drug Bust
- WCNC: Major Drug Operation
- Wikipedia: Drug Trafficking
- Google Search: Clover Drug Bust
- Google Scholar: Drug Trafficking Gangs
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Drug Trafficking
- Google News: Clover Drug Bust
Author: STAFF HERE ROCK HILL
The ROCK HILL STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERERockHill.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Rock Hill, York County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Come-See-Me Festival, Rock Hill Arts Festival, and motorsport events at the Rock Hill Velodrome. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Rock Hill Chamber of Commerce and the Culture & Heritage Museums, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and technology that power the local economy such as 3D Systems and Comporium. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
