News Summary
Jonathan Cole, a South Carolina man, has been sentenced to 25 years in prison for extensive drug trafficking. His operation included supplying cocaine, fentanyl, and marijuana, leading to multiple arrests during the ‘Triple Crown’ investigation. The case highlights serious issues surrounding drug trafficking in the region, with over 50 co-conspirators facing charges. A trial is scheduled for March 2025, emphasizing ongoing law enforcement efforts.
South Carolina Man Sentenced to 25 Years for Drug Trafficking
In a significant turn of events, a man from South Carolina has been sentenced to a hefty 25 years in prison for his involvement in extensive drug trafficking activities. Jonathan Cole, often referred to as “Buckshot,” pleaded guilty in what authorities have dubbed the ‘Triple Crown’ drug investigation, which has been the focus of law enforcement for quite some time now. The plea took place on February 28, 2025, marking a critical moment in an operation that has led to numerous arrests and ongoing investigations.
Who is Jonathan Cole?
Cole, identified as a key player in drug distribution, was found to be supplying large quantities of cocaine, fentanyl, and marijuana to high-level targets across several counties including Kershaw, Sumter, and Richland. Authorities caught wind of his activities after it was revealed that he was traveling to California to procure drugs, bringing them back to South Carolina in his luggage on commercial flights. This method of operation raised eyebrows and put Cole squarely on law enforcement’s radar.
The Investigation Unfolds
The investigation ramped up when one of Cole’s co-conspirators was detained on April 30, 2022, while allegedly carrying around 12 pounds of marijuana sourced from California. This individual was directed by Cole to deliver the marijuana to another associate, further connecting the dots in this complex web of drug trafficking. Shortly after this arrest, on June 2, 2022, law enforcement executed search warrants at properties linked to Cole, leading to shocking discoveries.
What Was Found?
Among the items uncovered were two vacuum-sealed bags hidden in a wooded area, containing approximately 635 grams of cocaine and 1,437 grams of fentanyl. Additionally, police found a staggering $27,384 in cash, an assault rifle, body armor-piercing ammunition, and about 16 pounds of marijuana. It became clear that Cole was entrenched in a serious operation that went well beyond casual drug dealing.
A Shocking Front
In an unexpected twist, it appeared that Cole was using an empty barber shop as a cover to launder the proceeds of his drug activities. This revelation highlights the level of sophistication and planning that went into his operations, as he sought to disguise illicit gains under the guise of a legitimate business. Such tactics not only put the community at risk but also illustrated how deep the drug problem runs in many areas.
What’s Next?
The ongoing ‘Triple Crown’ investigation doesn’t end with Cole. More than 50 co-conspirators are currently facing charges related to the trafficking of various drugs, including cocaine, methamphetamine, marijuana, heroin, and fentanyl. The scale of this operation has prompted law enforcement to take a comprehensive approach across multiple counties, emphasizing that they are determined to tackle this issue head-on.
Upcoming Trial
Looking ahead, a trial involving the co-conspirators is set to commence during the week of March 24, 2025, in Kershaw County. This will be a key moment for both law enforcement and the community as they seek justice and work towards tackling the rampant drug problem that has affected so many lives in the area.
As this case unfolds, it serves as a stark reminder of the persistent challenges communities face with drug trafficking and the lengths some individuals will go to in order to feed this dangerous market. The fight against drugs is ongoing, but with dedicated law enforcement efforts, there are signs of hope.
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Additional Resources
- WIS TV: Triple Crown Investigation
- ABC Columbia: Drug Charges Plea
- WDAM: Wanted Man Arrested
- The Guardian: Colombia Drug Bust
- CBS News: New Drug Trafficking Route
- Wikipedia: Drug Trafficking
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Drug Trafficking
- Google Search: Drug Trafficking News
Author: STAFF HERE IRMO
The IRMO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREIrmo.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Irmo, Lexington and Richland Counties, 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 Irmo Okra Strut Festival, Harbison Community Events, and local sports tournaments at the Palmetto Health Credit Union Foundation Stadium. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Irmo Chapin Recreation Commission and the Lexington Chamber and Visitors Center, plus leading businesses in retail and healthcare that power the local economy such as Village at Sandhill and Lexington Medical 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, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
