Ernest Roberts, Crack Cocaine Distribution, South Carolina 2023

South Carolina has seen its fair share of crime, but none as brazen as the case of Ernest Roberts, a 41-year-old man from Allendale, South Carolina. Roberts, also known as ‘Balla Walla,’ was sentenced to 15 years in prison for his involvement in the distribution of crack cocaine.

Columbia, South Carolina - On February 22, 2016, Roberts met with an informant working with the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) at a pawn store in Fairfax, South Carolina. The meeting was the culmination of several recorded phone calls between Roberts and the informant, who was tasked with purchasing 26.35 grams of crack cocaine from Roberts.

According to eyewitness testimony, Roberts sold the informant the cocaine in exchange for $1300.00 while standing near 10th Street in Fairfax. SLED agents testified that they observed the transaction and identified Ernest Roberts as the individual who met with the informant to conduct the controlled purchase.

Roberts has a history of prior convictions, including possession with intent to distribute oxycodone and crack cocaine in 2014, possession with intent to distribute marijuana in 2013, and distribution of cocaine in 2006. His lengthy criminal record suggests a pattern of behavior that has finally caught up with him.

The case was investigated by Special Agents with the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) and officers with the Allendale Police Department. The case was prosecuted pursuant to 14th Circuit Solicitor Duffie Stone’s longstanding partnership with the United States Attorney’s Office to target career criminals in Beaufort, Jasper, Hampton, Colleton, and Allendale Counties in federal court.

United States District Judge Mary G. Lewis handed down the 15-year sentence, a testament to the severity of the crime and the impact it has on the community. As the people of South Carolina continue to grapple with the scourge of crime, this case serves as a reminder of the consequences of engaging in such behavior.

Ernest Roberts’ sentencing is a significant step towards addressing the issue of crack cocaine distribution in South Carolina. As a journalist, it is my duty to shed light on the dark underbelly of crime and to hold those responsible accountable for their actions.

Source: https://www.justice.gov/usao-sc/pr/allendale-man-sentenced-fifteen-years-distribution-crack-cocaine