A South Carolina jury has convicted 37-year-old Craig Ninja Antonio Brewton on multiple felony charges following a 2022 investigation into drug distribution and a dramatic foot pursuit across Interstate 26. Brewton was sentenced on Friday to 25 years in prison and ordered to pay a $100,000 fine for trafficking cocaine.
The Incident
The investigation began on September 19, 2022, when deputies from the Spartanburg County Sheriff’s Office, alongside investigators from the South Carolina Department of Corrections, arrived at Brewton’s Moore residence on Teeanna Drive to serve an arrest warrant for the introduction of contraband into a state prison.
Upon their arrival, Brewton exited the home and immediately attempted to shut the door. Deputies reported smelling marijuana and claimed Brewton admitted to smoking.
Despite telling officers that no one else was inside the house, authorities reported hearing movement from within. After several unsuccessful attempts to contact anyone inside, deputies obtained a search warrant.
Foot Pursuit and Arrest
When Brewton was informed that he would be detained during the warrant process, he fled on foot. Authorities reported that Brewton ran through an overgrown field, crossed all four lanes of traffic on Interstate 26, and ignored multiple commands from Deputy Matthew Smith to stop.
Vehicles, including a horse trailer and an 18-wheeler, had to take evasive action to avoid hitting Brewton.
The pursuit ended on the shoulder of the highway when a deputy deployed a taser. Brewton resisted while on the ground and later refused medical treatment from responding EMS personnel.
Evidence Seized
A subsequent search of Brewton’s residence revealed substantial evidence linking him to drug trafficking. Investigators found:
- Over 250 grams of cocaine
- More than 360 grams of marijuana packaged for sale
- Two pistols
- Over $10,000 in cash
- Digital scales and distribution materials
Additionally, Brewton’s phone was discovered on a kitchen table near the drugs and scales. Brewton later admitted ownership of the cash and firearms, noting that he occasionally stayed at the residence.
Trial and Conviction
Brewton’s trial began on March 23, 2026. Despite warnings from the court, Brewton chose to represent himself. After deliberations, the jury found him guilty of multiple charges, including trafficking cocaine (200 to 400 grams), possession of a weapon during a violent crime, possession with intent to distribute marijuana, and resisting arrest.
Sentencing
For his convictions, Brewton was sentenced to 25 years in prison and ordered to pay a $100,000 fine for his role in the trafficking operation and his actions during the foot pursuit. Brewton’s case serves as a reminder of the serious consequences faced by individuals involved in drug distribution and evading law enforcement.
