Tyre Amahdikeem Brooks, John Matthew Railey, and Ricky Shane Underwood, all from Lancaster, have been sentenced to a combined total of 27 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to drug trafficking charges. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of South Carolina announced the sentences following evidence presented in court that the men were involved in a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine in the Lancaster area starting in January 2020.
In June 2020, narcotics investigators from the Lancaster County Sheriff’s Office carried out two controlled purchases of methamphetamine from Brooks, leading to his arrest in July 2020. At the time of his arrest, Brooks was found in possession of a loaded AR-15-style rifle, a 9mm pistol, and methamphetamine. In 2022, Brooks was arrested again in Rock Hill for firearms and narcotics offenses.
John Railey was also implicated in the drug trafficking operation. In January 2021, he was found with nearly an ounce of 99% pure methamphetamine during a domestic incident. Railey later sold methamphetamine to undercover officers in February 2021.
Ricky Underwood was similarly involved in drug sales. In February 2021, he sold methamphetamine to investigators during a controlled buy. A subsequent search of his home uncovered more methamphetamine and a firearm. Underwood continued to distribute methamphetamine, and in March 2023, a second search of his home revealed additional narcotics and firearms.
Sentences:
Tyre Brooks pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute and distribution of five grams or more of methamphetamine. He was sentenced to 108 months in prison followed by five years of supervised release.
John Railey was sentenced to 144 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribute methamphetamine.
Ricky Underwood was sentenced to 72 months in prison, with a four-year term of supervised release, after pleading guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine.
The sentencing reflects the ongoing efforts by federal authorities to combat drug trafficking and distribution in South Carolina and other areas.
