Two people arrested following drug bust in South Carolina

SOUTH CAROLINA — Two individuals were arrested and charged with drug-related offenses following a traffic stop in the Bennettsville area of Marlboro County, according to Chief Deputy Larry Turner.

The incident began when an officer, who stated he was visiting a friend, observed a man approach a parked car in front of a business.

The officer reported seeing the man hand the driver cash, after which the driver retrieved an item from a bag and handed it over.

The officer then activated his blue lights, approached the vehicle, and made contact with the driver.

According to Turner, the officer observed a bag containing a large amount of money and another bag with an unidentified substance.

The driver allegedly attempted to conceal the substance in a purple bag and reclined his seat.

The officer then instructed the driver to turn off the vehicle and surrender the keys.

Following the stop, Janiyha Townsend was arrested and charged with trafficking crack cocaine, possession of a weapon during a violent crime, unlawful neglect of a child, and simple possession of marijuana.

Demond Dominique Samuel was arrested and charged with possession with intent to distribute crack cocaine, felon in possession of a weapon, possession of a weapon during a violent crime, and unlawful neglect of a child.

Both suspects are being held at the Marlboro County Detention Center as they await a bond hearing.