North Charleston, August 21, 2025
News Summary
Eighteen individuals from the Lowcountry have been sentenced to a total of 144 years in federal prison for their roles in a significant drug trafficking organization. The sentences were the result of a wiretap investigation by the Lowcountry Violent Crime Task Force that unveiled the group’s distribution of various illegal drugs, including heroin and methamphetamine. U.S. Attorney Bryan P. Stirling characterized the group as a violent street gang. The investigation led to the seizure of substantial amounts of drugs and firearms, marking a significant step in combating organized crime in the area.
North Charleston – Eighteen individuals from the Lowcountry have been sentenced to a combined total of 144 years in federal prison for their involvement in a significant drug trafficking ring, following an extensive investigation led by the U.S. Attorney for the District of South Carolina. The sentences were announced after a wiretap investigation conducted by the Lowcountry Violent Crime Task Force unveiled the group’s operations.
The investigation, which began several months ago, culminated in the arrest of 12 suspects in February 2022. These individuals were charged with multiple drug-related offenses, including intent to distribute a variety of illegal substances such as heroin, cocaine, methamphetamine, and marijuana. While 11 of the suspects were prosecuted, one man’s charges were ultimately dismissed. Several members of the group also faced additional charges related to firearms.
U.S. Attorney Bryan P. Stirling labeled the drug trafficking network as a violent street gang, with leaders actively engaged in distributing drugs throughout the region. The primary individual identified, Fredrick Wendell McCray, aged 44, spearheaded the operation and directed distribution activities from an abandoned community center in North Charleston, using armed gang members for protection and enforcement.
Tyrone “T-Player” Cox, also 44, was reported as the primary drug supplier for the gang, while 21-year-old Cornelius “Lil Black” Walker was recognized as one of the gang’s principal enforcers. During the investigation, law enforcement agencies seized over 6 pounds of meth, 3 pounds of cocaine, 1.5 pounds of marijuana, and 1 pound of crack cocaine. Additionally, authorities confiscated 26 firearms, including four illegally modified full-auto machine guns, along with cash amounting to $70,000.
Fredrick Wendell McCray received a 30-year prison sentence for multiple counts of drug distribution and firearms offenses. Tyrone Cox was sentenced to 25 years for similar charges, while Cornelius Walker received a 15-year sentence for conspiracy to distribute drugs and possession of a machine gun.
The investigation was part of an initiative by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF), which aims to combat drug trafficking and organized crime activities. A collaborative effort among various federal and local law enforcement agencies, including the FBI and ATF, alongside multiple county sheriff’s offices and police departments, was vital in bringing this case to light.
Background Context
The drug trafficking ring had its operations rooted in the Lowcountry region, an area that has seen a troubling increase in drug-related crimes over recent years. The decision to utilize an abandoned community center as a base of operations underscores the group’s blatant disregard for the law and community safety. This case is considered a significant step forward in addressing violent crime and drug distribution in the area.
Ongoing Efforts
Law enforcement officials express hope that sentencing the leaders of this criminal organization will deter similar activities in the future. Ongoing efforts by the U.S. Attorney’s office and local law enforcement agencies focus on monitoring drug-related activities and increasing community outreach to prevent crime.
FAQ Section
What was the total prison sentence for the 18 individuals involved in the drug trafficking ring?
The combined total prison sentence for the 18 individuals was 144 years.
Who were the key individuals leading the drug trafficking operation?
Fredrick Wendell McCray led the group, with Tyrone “T-Player” Cox serving as the primary drug supplier and Cornelius “Lil Black” Walker as a primary enforcer.
What types of drugs were involved in the charges against the suspects?
The suspects faced charges related to heroin, cocaine, methamphetamine, and marijuana.
How many firearms were seized during the operation?
Law enforcement seized a total of 26 firearms, including four illegally modified full-auto machine guns.
What organization conducted the investigation?
The investigation was conducted by the Lowcountry Violent Crime Task Force and was part of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) initiative.
Key Features of the Drug Trafficking Case
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Sentences | 144 years |
| Suspects Involved | 18 individuals |
| Main Leaders | Fredrick Wendell McCray, Tyrone “T-Player” Cox, Cornelius “Lil Black” Walker |
| Drugs Seized | 6 lbs. of meth, 3 lbs. of cocaine, 1.5 lbs. of marijuana, 1 lb. of crack cocaine |
| Firearms Seized | 26 firearms, including 4 machineguns |
| Investigation Collaboration | FBI, ATF, local law enforcement |
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Additional Resources
- Live 5 News
- Wikipedia: Drug Trafficking
- Count on 2 News
- Google Search: North Charleston Drug Trafficking
- Post and Courier
- Google Scholar: Drug Trafficking North Charleston
- ABC News 4
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Drug Trafficking
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