The Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office has asked federal and state agencies to investigate allegations of misconduct involving Major Christopher Brian Blanton of the Gaffney City Police Department.
Federal Firearms Investigation
On May 12, 2026, the Sheriff’s Office requested the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) investigate Blanton’s business, Five-O Armory, for potential Federal Firearms License (FFL) violations. Allegations include improper over-the-counter sales and other irregularities in firearms transactions.
State Misconduct Investigation
Two days later, on May 14, 2026, the Sheriff’s Office asked the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) to investigate multiple allegations against Blanton, including:
- Ticket Fixing: Allegedly requesting subordinates to dismiss or mark “not guilty” on at least eight tickets.
- Personal Business: Operating Five-O Armory while on duty with the Gaffney Police Department.
- Use of City Property: Using a city-issued phone for business activities, on and off duty.
- Business License Violations: Selling firearms within Gaffney without a required business license.
Official Statement
Sheriff Steve Mueller said the investigations are meant to maintain impartiality due to Blanton’s professional relationships within the Gaffney Police Department and city government. “The timing of the allegations is unfortunate, but the seriousness of the claims required action,” Mueller said.
He confirmed that he has briefed Gaffney Police Chief Knight and Mayor Dawkins on the allegations and emphasized that the outcome of the investigations will be determined by ATF and SLED. “It is totally out of our hands from this point forward,” Mueller added.
Blanton, who is currently a candidate for Cherokee County Sheriff, has not commented publicly on the allegations.
