CLOVER, South Carolina — A six-month multi-agency narcotics investigation has resulted in the arrest of ten people and the recovery of huge amounts of illegal drugs, firearms, and cash, the York County Sheriff’s Office (YCSO) stated on Tuesday.
The York County Multi-Jurisdictional Drug Enforcement Unit (YCMDEU) organized the investigation, which targeted a suspected drug trafficking ring operating from a barbershop and convenience store at 501 Kings Mountain Street in Clover. The inquiry began in February 2025, after community members reported drug activities and violent crime in the region, including a shooting at Roosevelt Park during a child baseball game.
“This was a coordinated effort across multiple jurisdictions that took time, precision, and collaboration,” stated York County Sheriff Tony Breeden during a press conference. “This kind of work makes communities like Clover safer.”
Seized contraband and charges.
During the investigation and subsequent arrests on September 4, law enforcement confiscated:
Over 5,000 grams of methamphetamine (almost 11 pounds)
More than 600 grams of cocaine.
15.35 grams of crack cocaine.
More than 1,500 grams of marijuana.
Xanax and oxycodone both have 12 dosage units.
13 guns, including a sawed-off shotgun and a stolen handgun.
More than $7,800 of cash
The ten accused face 63 accusations, including drug trafficking, distribution, and firearms crimes.
Among the arrested:
Aaron Jerome Floyd, described by investigators as a proven gang member and commander of a local Blood gang group, was found with 11 pounds of methamphetamine.
Frederick Stevens Jr. was already free on bond in Charlotte on attempted murder and assault charges.
Houstononio Williams was found with almost 250 grams of fentanyl. If convicted, he will face a mandatory minimum term of 25 to 40 years under South Carolina’s fentanyl trafficking legislation.
Cornell Anthony Tucker, who resided at the barbershop and managed its daily operations, was charged with cocaine distribution.
Francis “Tamal” Gerald Francis was detained in Charlotte with fentanyl, marijuana, and a firearm, but he was eventually released on bond. He’s currently wanted in York County.
Dwan Tyreek Star, Tariq Robbins, Jarius Brown, Derek Maurice Middleton, and Quantavius Kennedy have also been detained on narcotics accusations.
Agencies involved
The operation was sponsored by twelve law enforcement agencies, including
The York County Sheriff’s Office
Clover Police Department
The Chester County Sheriff’s Office
Tega Cay Police Department
The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department
ATF
DEA
YCSO SWAT Team
Piedmont EMS
Additional regional narcotics and drone squads.
Officials underlined the value of interagency cooperation. “No single department could have pulled this off alone,” Sheriff Breeden stated. “It took commitment at every level—local, state, and federal.”
Community Impact
Kevin Brackett, Solicitor for the 16th Judicial Circuit, complimented the investigation’s impact on public safety, citing decreased drug availability and associated violent crime. “This operation is an example of what happens when we work together,” he told the crowd. “This isn’t only about drugs. It is about preventing violence. “Nearly half of our homicides are drug-related.”
Solicitor Brackett also addressed the ongoing fentanyl epidemic, adding that while recent measures have reduced overdose rates in York County, the decrease is due in part to user deaths. “It’s a tragic reality that underscores the need for enforcement and prevention,” he told reporters.
Ongoing investigation.
Authorities acknowledged that the investigation is still underway, and that new charges or arrests may be made. While all current charges have been brought in South Carolina state court, prosecutors are evaluating the cases to see if federal prosecution is more suitable in some circumstances.
If you have any information about Francis or related activities, please contact Crime Stoppers of York County at 1-877-409-4321 or visit yorkcrimestoppers.com.
