Indian Land, South Carolina, January 22, 2026
In a significant law enforcement operation in Indian Land, South Carolina, five individuals were arrested for their involvement in drug trafficking and illegal firearms possession. The operation followed months of community complaints and led to the seizure of various illegal substances, firearms, and a stolen motorcycle. This case underscores the importance of community engagement in maintaining public safety and supporting local businesses by combating crime.
Indian Land, South Carolina – Five Arrested in Drug Raid Uncovering Firearms and Stolen Motorcycle
Subheadline
A comprehensive investigation leads to significant drug-related arrests in Indian Land, showcasing the power of community engagement in maintaining public safety.
Introduction
Indian Land, South Carolina, has found itself in the news following a decisive law enforcement operation that culminated in the arrest of five individuals involved in drug trafficking and illegal firearms possession. This operation, driven by community complaints and diligent investigation from the Lancaster County Sheriff’s Office, highlights the ongoing challenges faced by local law enforcement in combating drug-related activity. In a region where entrepreneurship and small business growth are vital to the economy, the determination of law enforcement to address issues like drug trafficking improves community safety, paving the way for local businesses to thrive.
In a broader context, reducing regulatory hurdles for local businesses can enhance the economic landscape of York County. When law enforcement agencies step up to combat crime and ensure safer neighborhoods, it creates an environment conducive to business innovation and growth. This raid not only represents a crackdown on illegal activities but is also a reminder of the importance of community involvement and the potential for increased collaboration between residents and local authorities.
Details of the Operation
On January 15, 2026, a targeted operation took place at a residence on Barberville Road in Indian Land. The raid was the result of months of investigation into drug-related complaints from the community. During this extensive search, law enforcement agencies managed to seize a variety of illegal substances and paraphernalia. The haul included approximately 2.2 ounces of methamphetamine, about half an ounce of cocaine, over two dozen Xanax pills, nearly two ounces of marijuana, digital scales, and two firearms: a Remington 12-gauge shotgun and a Ruger .380 caliber pistol. Additionally, authorities recovered a motorcycle that was reported stolen from Rock Hill.
Arrests and Charges
The operation resulted in the arrest and charging of five individuals based on their involvement in the illicit activities uncovered during the raid:
– Renee Hewitt Schmader, 56: Charged with trafficking methamphetamine, trafficking cocaine, possession of Xanax and marijuana with intent to distribute, multiple counts of firearm possession during a violent crime, and possession of a stolen vehicle. Her bond was denied on drug and weapons-related charges, with a $5,000 surety bond set for the stolen vehicle charge. She is currently held in the Lancaster County Detention Center.
– Robert Eric White, 58: Charged with trafficking methamphetamine, trafficking cocaine, and possession with intent to distribute Xanax and marijuana, alongside multiple firearm possession charges. His bond was also denied, and he remains detained.
– Kimberly Shelton Patrick, 53: Charged with possession of methamphetamine and marijuana with intent to distribute. She was released after posting bonds totaling $12,500.
– Adrian Hunter Pittman, 24: Charged with possession of methamphetamine and Xanax with intent to distribute. He is currently held on bonds totaling $30,000.
– Judith Marie Wright, 31: Charged similarly to Pittman, she remains detained with bonds totaling $20,000.
Background Context
The Lancaster County Sheriff’s Office has made strides in tackling drug-related issues, with a history of successful operations leading to substantial seizures of firearms and narcotics. Recent events have underscored the importance of community involvement in law enforcement, with Sheriff Barry Faile stressing that the operation was informed by locally gathered intelligence. Emphasizing collaboration can strengthen the community’s resolve to fight crime, improving the quality of life for residents, and, in turn, supporting a vibrant local economy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What led to the arrests in Indian Land, South Carolina?
The arrests were the result of a months-long investigation by the Lancaster County Sheriff’s Office, initiated based on community complaints and intelligence gathered over time.
What items were seized during the raid?
Authorities seized approximately 2.2 ounces of methamphetamine, about half an ounce of cocaine, over two dozen Xanax pills, nearly two ounces of marijuana, digital scales, two firearms (a Remington 12-gauge shotgun and a Ruger .380 caliber pistol), and a motorcycle reported stolen from Rock Hill.
What charges were the arrested individuals facing?
The individuals faced various charges, including trafficking methamphetamine and cocaine, possession with intent to distribute Xanax and marijuana, possession of firearms during the commission of a violent crime, and possession of a stolen vehicle.
How has the Lancaster County Sheriff’s Office addressed drug-related crimes in the past?
The Sheriff’s Office has been actively addressing drug-related issues, including operations that have led to the seizure of firearms and the arrest of individuals involved in drug trafficking.
What did Sheriff Barry Faile say about the recent operation?
Sheriff Faile emphasized the importance of community involvement in combating drug-related crimes, stating that the operation was based on complaints received and information developed over time.
Key Features of the Operation
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Barberville Road, Indian Land, South Carolina |
| Date of Operation | January 15, 2026 |
| Seized Items | 2.2 ounces of methamphetamine, 0.5 ounces of cocaine, over 24 Xanax pills, nearly 2 ounces of marijuana, digital scales, 2 firearms, 1 stolen motorcycle |
| Arrested Individuals | Renee Hewitt Schmader, Robert Eric White, Kimberly Shelton Patrick, Adrian Hunter Pittman, Judith Marie Wright |
| Charges | Trafficking methamphetamine and cocaine, possession with intent to distribute Xanax and marijuana, possession of firearms during the commission of a violent crime, possession of a stolen vehicle |
| Law Enforcement Agencies Involved | Lancaster County Sheriff’s Office, Lancaster County Multijurisdictional Narcotics Task Force, SWAT |
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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.
