News Summary
Two men from Rock Hill face 15 years in federal prison after being convicted in South Carolina’s largest fentanyl bust. Authorities seized 60 pounds of illegal pills in the operation. In Chester County, a historic drug seizure potentially preventing harm to over 800,000 individuals was recorded. Additionally, a Rock Hill man received a 40-year sentence under new trafficking laws, reflecting the severe opioid crisis in the state. These cases highlight the urgent need for effective measures against drug trafficking and the opioid epidemic.
Rock Hill, South Carolina – Two men from Rock Hill, Timario Gayton and Quonzy Hope, have been sentenced to 15 years in federal prison after being convicted in South Carolina’s largest fentanyl bust. The sentencing, handed down by a judge in Columbia, comes after the pair was arrested in October 2022 for conspiracy to distribute illegal drugs.
The law enforcement operation leading to their arrest involved uncovering a secret lab located in a mobile home in Lake Wylie, where the drugs were manufactured. During the bust, authorities seized a staggering 60 pounds of illegal pills, in addition to two firearms and thousands of dollars in cash. The scale of this operation behind the distribution underscores the significant issue of drug trafficking in the region.
Significant Drug Seizure in Chester County
In a related matter, Chester County authorities made a historic drug seizure that they believe could have had deadly consequences for over 800,000 individuals. This operation, carried out on January 31, resulted in the confiscation of 3.7 pounds of fentanyl, 87 grams of crack cocaine, and approximately two pounds of marijuana. In addition to the drugs, authorities also seized 17 firearms, two vehicles, and more than $91,000 in cash. The married couple, Travaris and Lamonica Dixon, were arrested during this operation.
Sheriff Max Dorsey has declared this seizure the largest in Chester County’s history, emphasizing the harmful impact of these drugs on the community. The investigation remains active, with potential further charges pending against the Dixons. Sheriff Dorsey has also encouraged families dealing with substance abuse issues to seek help as early intervention can be crucial in preventing tragic outcomes.
Long Sentence for Trafficking Offender
In another notable case, Londell Lashun Alston from Rock Hill was sentenced to 40 years in prison under new fentanyl trafficking laws. Alston’s conviction stems from a police encounter in 2023, during which authorities discovered over 2,000 fentanyl pills, more than three pounds of heroin, and 425 grams of methamphetamine in his possession.
The sentence is significant as it is believed to be the longest handed down in York County under recent fentanyl trafficking regulations, which dictate prison terms of 25 to 40 years for possessing specific amounts of fentanyl. Although Alston was found not guilty on two weapon-related charges, his attorney has indicated a plan to appeal both the conviction and the length of the sentencing.
Ongoing Battle Against Opioid Crisis
These cases highlight a growing concern about the opioid crisis in South Carolina, prompting law enforcement to take decisive action. Senior Solicitor Marina Hamilton has pointed to the ongoing need for effective measures in combating the escalating issue of drug trafficking and the associated public health crisis. The legal system continues to respond with stringent penalties aimed at deterring drug-related offenses, reflecting the seriousness of the problem within the community.
As both local law enforcement and community members grapple with the implications of these cases, there is a collective push towards emphasizing prevention and treatment options for those grappling with addiction, further illustrating the comprehensive approach required to tackle drug-related issues effectively.
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Additional Resources
- WSOCTV: Two Men Sentenced to 15 Years in South Carolina’s Largest Fentanyl Bust
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Fentanyl
- WBTV: Massive Drug Bust in South Carolina
- Google Search: Fentanyl Bust South Carolina
- Herald Online: Drug Bust in Chester County
- Wikipedia: Opioid Crisis
- Herald Online: Ongoing Drug Issues in Rock Hill
- Google News: Drug Trafficking
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.
