Traffic Stop in Florence County Leads to Major Drug Bust

Police in Florence County conducting a traffic stop that led to a significant drug bust.

News Summary

A routine traffic stop on Dixie Street in Florence County, S.C. resulted in the arrest of two men, Jaquell Antonio McCullum and Rasheem Quashawn Chestnut, on numerous drug and weapons charges. The police discovered various illegal substances, including fentanyl and cocaine, leading to serious implications for the arrested individuals. Both men are currently held without bond, highlighting the ongoing drug-related issues in the community.

Traffic Stop in Florence County Leads to Major Drug Bust

Florence County, S.C. recently witnessed a significant event when a routine traffic stop turned into a major bust that has left the community buzzing. On a seemingly ordinary Thursday, which was January 6, 2025, police officers apprehended two individuals who now face a laundry list of serious drug and weapons charges. The incident occurred on the streets of Florence, specifically on Dixie Street, where the officers stumbled upon not just one, but multiple illegal substances.

Meet the Arrested Duo

The two arrested men have been identified as Jaquell Antonio McCullum, who is 32 years old, and Rasheem Quashawn Chestnut, aged 33. Authorities have cast a wide net of charges against both individuals, raising serious concerns about the extent of illicit activities happening in our neighborhoods.

Charges Against Jaquell McCullum

Starting with Jaquell McCullum, he’s facing some heavy-hitting charges that include:

Possession of marijuana with intent to distribute within proximity of a school
Possession with intent to distribute controlled substances
Possession with intent to distribute marijuana
Trafficking fentanyl

These allegations suggest that McCullum wasn’t just using these substances but rather had plans to distribute them, and the fact that it’s near a school makes the situation even more alarming.

Charges Against Rasheem Chestnut

Rasheem Chestnut faces an even more extensive list of charges, reflecting a more serious standing in the eyes of law enforcement. His charges include:

Trafficking fentanyl
Possession of controlled substances
Possession with intent to distribute cocaine
Trafficking methamphetamine
Possession of cocaine base
Possession of a weapon during the commission of a violent crime
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon

As a convicted felon, Chestnut’s handling of a firearm during this bust only amplifies the gravity of his charges and illustrates the kind of risks that come with deep-rooted criminal activity. His possession of various drugs and a weapon paints a concerning picture about the potential threats he posed to the community.

What Happened During the Traffic Stop?

During the traffic stop on Dixie Street, both men were found in possession of illegal narcotics that ultimately led to their immediate arrest. The swift actions of the local police ensured that these potentially dangerous drugs were taken off the streets. Given the current drug crisis affecting many communities, this arrest is certainly a step in the right direction to safeguard public safety.

Current Status of the Arrested

As things stand, both McCullum and Chestnut are being held at the Florence County Detention Center without bond. Their futures now hang in the balance as they face serious implications from these charges. With so many felonies associated with their names, it’s evident that this will not simply be a blip on the radar.

What This Means for the Community

This incident shines a light on the drug-related issues that can surface right in our backyards. It’s a potent reminder that vigilance is vital in our communities. Whether you’re a resident of Florence County or just passing through, it’s crucial to stay informed about the potential dangers lurking within and to support local law enforcement in their ongoing battles against drug trafficking and related crimes.

As this story develops, one can only hope that it serves as a wake-up call for many, prompting discussions about safety, drugs, and what can be done in our communities to prevent such occurrences in the future.