Florence, SC, September 27, 2025
News Summary
A traffic stop in Florence, SC led to the discovery of nearly $7.3 million worth of counterfeit checks and multiple stolen license plates, all linked to driver Byron Antwan Black, who faces numerous charges. The incident highlights ongoing law enforcement efforts to combat financial crimes using advanced technology and K-9 units.
Florence Traffic Stop Leads to Significant Counterfeit Check Discovery
A routine traffic stop in Florence, SC resulted in the uncovering of nearly $7.3 million worth of counterfeit checks. The incident took place on Tuesday in the Pee Dee region of South Carolina, marking a significant bust in counterfeit financial crimes.
Officers were alerted to the vehicle after a special license plate reader camera, known as FLOCK, identified a stolen license tag. During the traffic stop, investigators searched the vehicle and found 19 counterfeit checks totaling approximately $7.3 million. In addition to the counterfeit checks, multiple out-of-state license tags were also present in the vehicle, with two of those tags reported as stolen.
The driver, identified as 34-year-old Byron Antwan Black from Florence, was charged with 19 counts of possession of counterfeit checks. He is also facing three counts of possession of stolen goods as part of the investigation. After being taken into custody, he was booked at the Florence County Detention Center on the same day as the traffic stop.
According to jail records, Byron Black was released the following day on a $6,000 bond. Additionally, during the traffic stop, a K-9 unit trained in drug detection alerted the officers to the presence of narcotics within the vehicle, raising further concerns about illegal activities associated with Black.
Background on the Investigation
This traffic stop is part of ongoing efforts by law enforcement to combat financial crimes, including the distribution of counterfeit checks. Counterfeit checks pose a significant threat to businesses and banks, often resulting in substantial financial losses. The use of technology such as license plate reader cameras is becoming increasingly vital in enhancing the effectiveness of crime detection and prevention.
Law enforcement agencies are continuously adapting to innovations in crime, and the deployment of trained K-9 units reflects a comprehensive approach to tackling illicit activities, including drug-related offenses. As investigations continue, authorities are expected to further scrutinize the connections between stolen vehicle tags, counterfeit checks, and potential drug trafficking.
What Happens Next?
As the case moves forward, more information may emerge regarding Byron Black’s operations and whether he is connected to larger criminal networks. Investigators will likely review surveillance footage and gather additional evidence to build a comprehensive case. The ramifications of these charges could lead to considerable sentences if convicted.
Key Points
• Traffic Stop Date: Tuesday
• Location: Florence, SC
• Counterfeit Checks Found: 19 checks totaling $7.3 million
• Driver: Byron Antwan Black, 34
• Charges: 19 counts of possession of counterfeit checks, 3 counts of possession of stolen goods
• Bond: Released on $6,000
FAQs
What was found during the traffic stop in Florence?
During the traffic stop, officers discovered 19 counterfeit checks totaling approximately $7.3 million.
Who is Byron Antwan Black?
Byron Antwan Black is a 34-year-old resident of Florence, SC, who was charged with multiple counts of possessing counterfeit checks and stolen goods.
What is the significance of the FLOCK camera system?
The FLOCK camera system is designed to alert law enforcement to stolen vehicles, aiding in crime detection and prevention.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- WMBF News: Stolen Checks Discovered During Florence Traffic Stop
- WBTW News: Man Accused of Cashing Fraudulent Checks
- WLTX: Sumter County Man Tried to Buy Car with Counterfeit Check
- Wikipedia: Counterfeit
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Fraud
Author: STAFF HERE FLORENCE WRITER
FLORENCE STAFF WRITER The FLORENCE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREFlorence.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Florence, Florence County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Florence Festival of Lights, Pee Dee Pride, and agricultural expos at the Florence Center. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Florence Regional Chamber of Commerce and the Pee Dee Area Council of Governments, plus leading businesses in healthcare and retail that power the local economy such as McLeod Health and Pee Dee Electric Cooperative. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharleston.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGreenville.com, and HEREHiltonHead.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
