Yesterday’s announcement and press conference (12 March 2019) is the result of an investigation coined “Operation Gunsmoke”. Across the Two State, a joint effort between Federal, State and Local law enforcement/prosecutorial agencies took actions to arrest over 25 offenders who are accused of committing a combination of violent crimes.
“ We will not stand by and let violent criminal enterprises continue victimizing our communities” said U.S.Attorney Lydon for the District of South Carolina. Sheriff Hunt stared during the press conference, “We are simply not gonna tolerate gang related violence in our neighborhoods. This is the first wave today and there will be more to come in the future.” Some of the various charges include but not limited to, distribution and or trafficking of illegal drugs (Cocaine/methamphetamine), possession of firearms by a convicted felon, dealing in firearms without a license, etc. This is still an on-going investigation. More arrest are expected as this investigation continues in both South Carolina and Georgia.
“In attendance were law enforcement and prosecutorial executives from the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of South Carolina, United States Attorney’s Office for the District Southern District of Georgia , the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms, the Second Judicial Circuit Solicitor’s Office, Richmond County District Attorney’s Office, the Aiken County Sheriff’s Office, the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office, the Aiken Department Public Safety, the North Augusta Department of Public Safety, and the SC State Law Enforcement Division (SLED).” (Credit: Aiken Public Safety)