North Charleston, August 20, 2025
News Summary
Eighteen members of a violent drug trafficking gang in North Charleston, South Carolina, have been sentenced to a total of 144 years in federal prison. Following an extensive investigation, key figures Fredrick McCray, Tyrone Cox, and Cornelius Walker received lengthy sentences for their roles in distributing various illegal drugs, while a significant cache of firearms was also seized.
North Charleston Drug Trafficking Gang Members Sentenced to 144 Years
Eighteen men involved in a violent drug trafficking operation in North Charleston, South Carolina, have been sentenced to a combined total of 144 years in federal prison. These sentences come as a result of their participation in a drug ring that was dismantled following a comprehensive investigation by the Lowcountry Violent Crime Task Force.
The investigation, which included extensive wiretaps, culminated in the arrest of twelve suspects in February 2022. Initially, these individuals faced various drug-related charges, including intent to distribute heroin, cocaine, methamphetamine, and marijuana. From these arrests, eleven defendants were formally charged, as one case was dismissed.
The U.S. Attorney for South Carolina labeled the organization as a violent street gang, highlighting the serious nature of their criminal activities. Many of the defendants also faced additional charges linked to firearms offenses.
Key Figures in the Operation
Fredrick Wendell McCray, known as “Dub,” was identified as the leader of the gang. He operated drug distribution from an abandoned community center in North Charleston and was noted for being armed, at times equipping fellow gang members with firearms, including fully automatic machine guns. His leadership role in the organization positioned him a central figure in the drug trafficking activities.
Tyrone “T-Player” Cox was described as the primary drug supplier within the gang, while Cornelius “Lil Black” Walker acted as one of the main enforcers for McCray. Walker’s role directly supported the distribution network and contributed to the gang’s dynamic.
Seizure of Drugs and Firearms
During the investigation, authorities successfully seized substantial quantities of illegal substances, including over 6 pounds of methamphetamine, 3 pounds of cocaine, 1.5 pounds of marijuana, and 1 pound of crack cocaine. Additionally, law enforcement confiscated 26 firearms, which included four modified fully automatic machine guns, along with $70,000 in cash.
McCray received the harshest penalty, with a 30-year sentence due to multiple charges associated with drug distribution and firearm offenses. Cox was sentenced to 25 years for conspiracy to distribute cocaine and crack cocaine, while Walker received a 15-year sentence for related crimes, including possession of a machine gun.
Collaboration Among Law Enforcement Agencies
This operation was part of a broader investigation led by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force and involved collaboration among various law enforcement agencies, including the FBI and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, as well as several state and local law enforcement entities. Over the course of this investigation, authorities intercepted a shipment of drugs intended for a U.S. military contractor in Kuwait, demonstrating the extensive reach of the trafficking network.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Chris Lietzow and Nick Bianchi, who navigated the complexities of the prosecution to secure the lengthy sentences handed down to those involved in the criminal operation.
FAQ
What led to the arrests of the gang members?
The arrests followed a lengthy wiretap investigation conducted by the Lowcountry Violent Crime Task Force, revealing their roles in a violent drug trafficking ring.
What types of drugs were involved in the operation?
The operation involved various drugs, including heroin, cocaine, methamphetamine, and marijuana.
How were firearms related to this case?
Many gang members faced additional charges related to firearms offenses, with authorities seizing 26 firearms, including machine guns.
What sentences were given to the primary leaders of the gang?
Fredrick Wendell McCray received a 30-year sentence, while Tyrone Cox was sentenced to 25 years, and Cornelius Walker received 15 years.
Which agencies were involved in the investigation?
The investigation involved the FBI, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and various state and local law enforcement agencies.
Summary of Sentences and Drug Seizures
| Name | Role | Sentence (years) |
|---|---|---|
| Fredrick Wendell McCray | Leader | 30 |
| Tyrone Cox | Primary Drug Supplier | 25 |
| Cornelius Walker | Enforcer | 15 |
| Total Sentences | 144 | |
Summary of Seizures
| Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| Methamphetamine | 6 pounds |
| Cocaine | 3 pounds |
| Marijuana | 1.5 pounds |
| Crack Cocaine | 1 pound |
| Firearms | 26 total |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Mexico Steps Up Extraditions of Cartel Figures to the U.S.
Juvenile Arrested for Illegal Handgun and Drugs in North Charleston
Ecuador Extradites Notorious Gang Leader Fito to the U.S.
Charleston Homicide Investigation After Arrest of Violent Suspect
Intensified Immigration Enforcement Raises Concerns for Lawyers
Major Law Enforcement Operation Targets Drug Activity in South Carolina
Community Outrage Following Ice Raid at Alamo Nightclub
Alaskan Lawyer Indicted on Drug Trafficking and Firearm Charges
Trump Commutes Life Sentence of Notorious Gang Leader Lawyer
Federal Grand Jury Indicts 16 in Charleston Drug and Weapons Case
Additional Resources
- Live 5 News
- Spectrum Local News
- Count on 2 News
- Post and Courier
- WYFF 4 News
- Wikipedia: Drug Trafficking
- Google Search: North Charleston drug trafficking
- Google Scholar: Drug Trafficking South Carolina
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Drug Trafficking
- Google News: North Charleston gang drug trafficking
Author: STAFF HERE CHARLESTON
The CHARLESTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREcharleston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Charleston, Charleston 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 Spoleto Festival USA, Charleston Wine + Food Festival, and the MOJA Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce and the Charleston Museum, plus leading businesses in tourism and maritime industries that power the local economy such as South Carolina Ports Authority and the Charleston Visitor Center. 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, HEREspartanburg.com, HEREaustin.com, HEREcollegestation.com, HEREdallas.com, HEREhouston.com, and HEREsanantonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
