A Beaufort County man will spend nearly six years in federal prison after pleading guilty to drug trafficking charges tied to Mexican cartel shipments sent through the mail.
Michael Thomas Martin, 54, admitted to possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
Cartel Connection and Drug Shipments
Prosecutors said Martin received multiple pounds of methamphetamine that were shipped from Mexico, routed through Tucson and Phoenix, and then delivered to him in South Carolina. Authorities noted he used sophisticated packaging methods to avoid detection when sending and receiving drugs.
DEA Surveillance and Arrest
On March 5, 2024, DEA agents conducting surveillance in North Charleston observed Martin completing a drug deal. Officers stopped his vehicle and discovered a magnetic box hidden in the engine compartment.
Inside, they found 56 grams of crystal meth.
A later search of Martin’s home uncovered:
Additional crystal methamphetamine
Marijuana
Fentanyl
Ammunition
Sentencing and Supervision
U.S. District Judge Richard M. Gergel sentenced Martin to 70 months (nearly six years) in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release.
Multi-Agency Investigation
The investigation was led by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) with assistance from the Charleston Police Department, Goose Creek Police Department, and the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office.
Michael Thomas Martin’s conviction underscores the role of federal, state, and local law enforcement in dismantling drug trafficking networks tied to international cartels. His sentencing sends a clear message: drug trafficking and cartel connections will not be tolerated in South Carolina.
