Brandan Lamont Richardson, a validated gang member, age 35, was convicted on Thursday, Jan. 11, by a Lexington County jury for Trafficking Methamphetamine over 100 grams, Possession with Intent to Distribute Fentanyl, and Possession with Intent to Distribute Crack Cocaine. Circuit Court Judge Walton J. McLeod, IV, presided over the trial and sentenced Richardson to 25 years in the South Carolina Department of Corrections on each drug charge. Under South Carolina law, trafficking methamphetamine over 100 grams is classified as a violent, serious, and “no parole” offense.

On February 9, 2023, agents with the South Carolina Department of Probation, Parole, and Pardon Services arrived at the Masters Inn in the City of Cayce to locate a wanted person. Instead, the agents found Richardson. After observing possible drug activity, investigators with the Lexington County Multi-Agency Narcotics Enforcement Team were contacted and arrived on scene.

A search of Richardson’s room revealed over 100 grams of methamphetamine, 16 grams of fentanyl, and crack cocaine. The drugs were found hidden in a dog food bag meant for a puppy Richardson admitted he owned. Investigators located drug paraphernalia as well as packaging materials commonly used in the sale of drugs along with a large amount of cash. Further, the investigation revealed text messages from Richardson, detailing his negotiations and attempts to distribute the methamphetamine and fentanyl within the area.

Richardson has prior convictions for Drug Distribution, Unlawful Neglect of a Child, Domestic Violence, and Robbery. Richardson was transported to the South Carolina Department of Corrections on January 17, 2024, to begin serving his sentence.

Assistant Solicitors Jordan Cox and Bruce Norton handled the prosecution of this case. The investigation was conducted by the Lexington County Multi-Agency Narcotics Enforcement Team, with assistance from the South Carolina Department of Probation, Parole, and Pardon. This case represents the combined efforts of law enforcement and the Eleventh Circuit Solicitor’s Office to continue seeking justice against those who choose to spread fentanyl and other dangerous drugs into our community.