CLOVER, S.C. — A six-month multi-agency drug investigation has resulted in the arrest of 10 individuals and the seizure of large quantities of illegal drugs, firearms, and cash, the York County Sheriff’s Office (YCSO) announced Tuesday.
The operation, coordinated by the York County Multi-Jurisdictional Drug Enforcement Unit (YCMDEU), targeted a suspected drug trafficking ring operating out of a barbershop and convenience store located at 501 Kings Mountain Street in Clover. The investigation began in February 2025 following community reports of drug activity and violent crime in the area, including a shooting at Roosevelt Park during a youth baseball game.
“This was a coordinated effort across multiple jurisdictions that took time, precision, and collaboration,” said York County Sheriff Tony Breeden during a press conference. “This kind of work makes communities like Clover safer.”
Seized Contraband and Charges
During the course of the investigation and subsequent arrests on September 4, law enforcement seized:
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Over 5,000 grams of methamphetamine (approx. 11 pounds)
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More than 600 grams of cocaine
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15.35 grams of crack cocaine
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Over 1,500 grams of marijuana
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12 dosage units each of oxycodone and Xanax
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13 firearms, including a stolen handgun and a sawed-off shotgun
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More than $7,800 in cash
A total of 63 charges were filed against the 10 suspects, including drug trafficking, distribution, and weapons violations.
Among those arrested:
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Aaron Jerome Floyd, described by officials as a documented gang member and a leader of a local Blood gang set, was found in possession of 11 pounds of methamphetamine.
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Frederick Stevens Jr., who was already out on bond from Charlotte on attempted murder and assault charges.
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Houstononio Williams, caught with more than 250 grams of fentanyl. If convicted, he faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 25 to 40 years under South Carolina’s fentanyl trafficking statute.
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Cornell Anthony Tucker, who lived at the barbershop and oversaw daily operations, was charged with drug distribution.
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Francis “Tamal” Gerald Francis was arrested in Charlotte with fentanyl, marijuana, and a handgun but was later released on bond. He is currently wanted in York County.
Other individuals arrested on narcotics-related charges include Dwan Tyreek Star, Tariq Robbins, Jarius Brown, Derek Maurice Middleton, and Quantavius Kennedy.
Agencies Involved
The operation was supported by 12 law enforcement agencies, including:
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York County Sheriff’s Office
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Clover Police Department
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Chester County Sheriff’s Office
- Tega Cay Police Department
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Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department
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ATF
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DEA
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YCSO SWAT Team
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Piedmont EMS
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Additional regional narcotics and drone units
Officials emphasized the importance of interagency cooperation. “No single department could have pulled this off alone,” said Sheriff Breeden. “It took commitment at every level—local, state, and federal.”
Community Impact
Kevin Brackett, Solicitor for the 16th Judicial Circuit, praised the investigation’s effect on public safety, noting the reduction in drug accessibility and associated violent crime. “This operation is an example of what happens when we work together,” he said. “This isn’t just about drugs. It’s about preventing violence. Nearly half of our homicides are drug-related.”
Solicitor Brackett also highlighted the ongoing fentanyl crisis, stating that while recent efforts have driven overdose numbers down in York County, the decline is partly due to users dying. “It’s a tragic reality that underscores the need for enforcement and prevention,” he said.
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities confirmed that the investigation is ongoing, and additional charges or arrests could follow. While all current charges have been filed in South Carolina state court, officials are reviewing the cases to determine whether federal prosecution may be more appropriate in some instances.
The public is asked to contact Crime Stoppers of York County at 1-877-409-4321 or visit yorkcrimestoppers.com with any information on Francis or related activity.
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