News Summary
Antonio Fredrick Skinner, a 46-year-old from Florence County, has been sentenced to 10 years in prison after pleading guilty to multiple drug-related charges. The verdict was delivered by Judge Deadra L. Jefferson following his guilty plea that precluded his trial set for March 2025. Skinner faced serious charges including possession with intent to distribute cocaine and trafficking of methamphetamine, linked to a broader investigation on drug distribution in Myrtle Beach. His case highlights ongoing challenges in the community concerning substance abuse and law enforcement’s efforts to combat drug-related crimes.
Florence County Man Sentenced to 10 Years for Drug Charges in Horry County
In the bustling county of Horry, a 46-year-old man from Florence County has been handed a significant prison sentence following a series of drug-related charges. Antonio Fredrick Skinner, hailing from the small town of Johnsonville, has been sentenced to a hefty 10 years in prison after he pleaded guilty to a trio of serious offenses. This decision was delivered by Judge Deadra L. Jefferson during a recent hearing.
The Charges
Skinner’s guilty plea came just before his trial was set to kick off on March 4, 2025. He faced multiple charges in Horry County Circuit Court, including:
- Second-offense possession with intent to distribute cocaine
- Distribution of cocaine
- Second-offense trafficking of more than 10 grams of methamphetamine
It seems Skinner’s troubles began after a traffic stop in June 2021, in the popular Myrtle Beach area. During this encounter with law enforcement, he was found in possession of cocaine, and the authorities subsequently linked him to methamphetamine trafficking.
A Broader Investigation
Skinner’s case is not an isolated incident. His arrest was part of a lengthy investigation carried out by local police aimed at cracking down on narcotics distribution within Myrtle Beach. The ongoing efforts of the Horry County Police Department, particularly their Street Crimes and Narcotics divisions, have been pivotal in addressing drug issues in the community.
What Led to the Sentencing
Skinner’s legal saga did not end with simple charges. Pleading guilty meant that he was willing to accept the consequences of his actions. During the sentencing hearing, Judge Jefferson ensured that the sentences for his various offenses would run concurrently rather than consecutively, which could have added even more time to his prison term.
This kind of plea bargain often helps expedite the judicial process, but it also indicates the seriousness of the situation. By pleading guilty, Skinner has acknowledged his role in drug distribution and trafficking, showing that sometimes the evidence against an individual is too strong to contest.
The Bigger Picture
The charges against Skinner highlight a much larger issue within certain communities, where drug-related activities can often get out of hand. The ongoing commitment by law enforcement to tackle these kinds of crimes serves as a reminder of the ever-present battle against substance abuse and the impact it has on families and communities alike.
The 15th Circuit Solicitor’s Office has made it clear that they appreciate the dedicated work of law enforcement. They are grateful for the diligent efforts taken by the Horry County Police Department to ensure that those involved in drug-related activities face the repercussions of their actions. It is crucial to the broader fight against drug crime, especially in areas that attract tourists, such as Myrtle Beach.
Looking Ahead
While Skinner will spend the next decade behind bars, his case serves as a crucial piece of the ongoing conversation about drug trafficking and distribution issues within our communities. The goal remains clear: to curb the influx of drugs and prevent individuals from falling into the cycle of addiction and crime.
As we reflect on this case, it’s a reminder that the road to recovery for communities plagued by drug issues is long and challenging. However, with continued efforts from local authorities, there is hope for a healthier and safer environment for everyone.
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Additional Resources
- WMBF News: Florence County Man Sentenced to 10 Years for Drug Charges in Horry County
- WECT: Myrtle Beach Man Found Guilty, Sentenced Nearly 20 Years for Drug Charges
- Myrtle Beach Online: Local Crime News
- WBTW: Myrtle Beach Man to Serve 10 Years for Drug Charges
- WMBF News: Myrtle Beach Man Sentenced After Guilty Plea in Drug Trafficking Case
- Wikipedia: Drug Trafficking
- Google Search: Drug Crimes March 2025
- Google Scholar: Drug Trafficking Legal Consequences
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Drug Trafficking
- Google News: Horry County Drug Sentences
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.
