Midlands “gang member” sentenced to 25 years in prison for drugs

LEXINGTON COUNTY, S.C. (WOLO)– A Midlands gang member was convicted by a Lexington County jury on Thursday, said the Eleventh Circuit Solicitor’s Office.

Officials said Brandan Lamont Richardson was convicted for trafficking over 100 grams of methamphetamine , possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, and possession with intent to
distribute crack cocaine.

Circuit Court Judge Walton J. McLeod, IV sentenced Richardson to twenty-five years in the South Carolina Department of Corrections on each drug charge.

Officials said on February 9, 2023, agents with the South Carolina Department of Probation, Parole, and Pardon Services arrived at the Masters Inn in the City of Cayce to locate a wanted person.

But instead found Richardson.

Investigators said after observing possible drug activity, the Lexington County Multi-Agency Narcotics Enforcement Team were contacted and arrived on scene.

A search of Richardson’s room revealed over 100 grams of methamphetamine, 16 grams of fentanyl, and crack cocaine in a dog food bag meant for a puppy Richardson admitted he owned.

Drug paraphernalia as well as packaging materials along with a large amount of cash were also found.

Further, the investigation revealed text messages from Richardson that detailed his negotiations and attempts to distribute the methamphetamine and fentanyl within the area.

Investigators said Richardson has prior convictions for drug distribution, unlawful neglect of a child, domestic violence, and robbery.

Richardson was taken to the South Carolina Department of Corrections on Jan. 17 to begin serving his sentence.