Demarcus Rashon Austin, 34, was sentenced to life in prison on drug trafficking charges following an incident in Cherokee County, South Carolina. On May 26, 2023, Austin was pulled over for a traffic offense near Hickory Street and Chandler Street in Gaffney. During the stop, a Cherokee County deputy noticed a strong odor of marijuana emanating from the truck Austin was driving. Austin admitted to having recently smoked marijuana and possessing it in the vehicle, along with a handgun.
A subsequent search revealed a Glock 10 mm handgun and a plastic bag containing 26 grams of methamphetamine. As a result of his third serious conviction, Austin was sentenced to life in prison for trafficking methamphetamine in the range of 10 to 28 grams. He was also sentenced to 30 days in jail for marijuana possession.
Due to his extensive criminal history, which includes prior convictions for distribution of crack cocaine, assault, and other charges, Austin’s sentence reflects the severity of his actions. Under South Carolina law, his conviction for trafficking methamphetamine resulted in a life sentence without the possibility of parole. Additionally, a potential five-year sentence for possession of a weapon during the commission of a violent crime was not imposed due to the life sentence on the drug trafficking charge.
This conviction is a reflection of Austin’s long-standing criminal behavior and a significant outcome in Cherokee County’s efforts to combat drug trafficking.