Matthew Joshua Tolson, a 33-year-old man from Bennettsville, South Carolina, has been sentenced to more than 18 years in federal prison. Tolson pleaded guilty to possessing a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking, a crime that has been a major threat to the community.
On July 20, 2021, officers with the Dillon Police Department attempted to stop a purple Dodge Charger driven by Tolson. Instead of stopping, Tolson led law enforcement officers on a high-speed chase through downtown Dillon. The chase ended when Tolson crashed into the Dillon Police Department sign. Upon approaching the vehicle, officers found a loaded .40 caliber Glock pistol with a 50-round drum magazine in Tolson’s lap, along with nearly 24 grams of crack cocaine and approximately $300 in cash.
Tolson had multiple prior felony convictions, which prohibited him from legally possessing a firearm or ammunition. United States District Judge Sherri A. Lydon sentenced Tolson to 226 months in federal prison, followed by a five-year term of court-ordered supervision. There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program. The PSN program focuses on reducing violent crime by targeting the most violent offenders and partnering with locally based prevention and reentry programs.
The investigation was conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Dillon Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Katherine Flynn is prosecuting the case.
Tolson’s violent history and involvement in firearms-related incidents make him a significant threat to the community. By bringing him to justice, law enforcement has made the Dillon community safer. The hard work of all agencies involved in this case is greatly appreciated.
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Key Facts
- State: South Carolina
- Category: Violent Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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