MARLBORO COUNTY, S.C. — Two people were arrested on Friday following a prison drug smuggling bust, the Marlboro County Sheriff’s Office confirmed.
Deputies charged Cherish Lightner and Sintari Summers with trafficking methamphetamine, introducing contraband into a correctional institution, possession of marijuana with intent to distribute, criminal conspiracy, and operating an unmanned aerial vehicle (drone) near Department of Corrections prisoners.
During a traffic stop on Cottingham Boulevard, Bennettsville police officers detected the smell of marijuana, prompting a vehicle search. Authorities found packaging materials matching those used for contraband deliveries at Evans Correctional over recent weeks, as well as a drone in the car’s trunk.
Following notification, correctional officials conducted a thorough sweep of the prison grounds and discovered related contraband on state property.
Lightner and Summers were taken to the Marlboro County Detention Center. The investigation is a joint effort between local law enforcement and correctional authorities.
The case is being handled by Investigator J. Hatcher and Sgt. Dew.
