Greenville County, SC – A months-long investigation by the Greenville County Multi-Jurisdictional Drug Enforcement Unit has led to the arrest of Irby Jarrard Watkins and the recovery of a large quantity of dangerous drugs, firearms, and cash.
Arrest and Charges
Authorities confirmed that Watkins was taken into custody on September 4 and is now facing multiple drug trafficking charges. Officials say this arrest follows an extensive operation that targeted drug activity in Greenville County and surrounding areas.
Drugs and Items Seized
During the course of the investigation, officers recovered an alarming amount of illegal substances. According to law enforcement, the seizures included:
- 21.64 pounds of marijuana
- 1,508.09 grams of cocaine
- 39.5 grams of heroin
- 563.32 grams of fentanyl
- 2 firearms
- $4,176 in cash
Officials emphasized that the amount of fentanyl alone was enough to put countless lives at risk.
Additional Search in Duncan
The investigation also extended beyond Greenville County. With assistance from the Spartanburg County Sheriff’s Office, the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED), and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), authorities executed a search warrant at a property in Duncan, South Carolina.
According to the reports, that search resulted in the seizure of an additional 521 grams of fentanyl, adding to what officials are calling a major drug bust for the region.
Ongoing Investigation
According to arrest warrants, the investigation into Watkins began as far back as May. One of the searches tied to the case was carried out at his secondary residence located on Kingsley Drive.
Law enforcement officials say this case highlights the coordinated effort between multiple agencies to disrupt drug trafficking operations in South Carolina. The investigation remains active, and additional charges could follow.
Community Impact
Authorities noted that large-scale fentanyl seizures like this are particularly significant, as the drug has been linked to a sharp rise in overdoses across the country. Local residents expressed relief that such a dangerous operation has been dismantled in their community.
What do you think about this major drug seizure in Greenville County? Do you feel enough is being done to combat fentanyl and other dangerous drugs in South Carolina? Share your thoughts in the comments.
