On Friday, around 75 law enforcement officers from several county and state agencies cooperated with a crime suppression sweep in Berkeley County.
Officials Statement:
The Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office received assistance from the South Carolina Highway Patrol, the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division, the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources, the South Carolina Department of Probation, Parole, and Pardon Services, the Summerville Police Department, and the Goose Creek Police Department.
Berkeley County Sheriff Duane Lewis said they are focused on the areas where they have the most problems, such as drugs, crime, and traffic. They plan this by analyzing data from annual reports and citizen complaints. “We’re just trying to let the citizens know that we’re out there, that we’re getting these bad people off the streets and doing everything we can to make them safe,” says the politician. Lewis claims the ultimate goal of this sweep is to make the county a safer place.
“My aim is that it reduces crime while also removing terrible people from the streets. That’s what citizens pay us to do, and as you can see by the gathering of professionals here tonight, we’re dedicated, we have a strategy, and we’re going after the criminals,” he continues.
According to Sgt. Joe Seegars, they arrested someone who was riding a motorcycle and carrying drugs. He claims a motorbike was pursued, but it was called off due to traffic and weather. From there, he claims to have seen a motorcycle and driver that matched the description. When Seegars contacted the driver, he noticed a magnet box in their bookbag, which he claims is commonly used to store illegal substances. He claims they then discovered a weapon. He said the person will most likely be charged with trafficking fentanyl, possessing methamphetamine, possessing with intent to distribute, and possessing a weapon during a violent incident. Still, the levels will need to be tested. Sgt. Steve Zubkoff says the criminal sweep is critical to keeping the county safe.
“It’s incredibly significant for a few reasons. The obvious would be to protect and serve the communities in Berkeley County, but also to show the public that we’re out there enforcing the laws and preparing everyone for a pleasant and safe weekend,” he says.
Lewis said he thinks by doing this, Berkeley County residents would be able to sleep better at night. The Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office says they will reveal the identities and charges against those involved in the sweep within the next several days.