⏱ 2 min read
In a stunning takedown, three Sumter County men – Zuri Laxenda Cokley, 23, Jashai Dyrell Mellette, 26, and Denetrick Devontae Holland, 24 – have been sentenced to a combined 205 months in federal prison for their roles in an armed drug conspiracy involving the distribution of crack cocaine and fentanyl in Sumter County, South Carolina. The investigation, which began in 2023, was led by the Sumter County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The men were found to be operating a stash house, where they sold large quantities of narcotics to confidential informants.
On August 31, 2023, agents executed a search warrant at the property, recovering 45 grams of fentanyl, 109 grams of crack cocaine, 415 grams of marijuana, digital scales, packaging materials, cash, a stolen pistol, and a semiautomatic firearm. Cokley and Mellette were present and arrested at the scene. Despite being released on bond in October 2023, Cokley continued to distribute narcotics, selling additional fentanyl to an informant in April 2024.
The defendants all had prior criminal histories, with Cokley having multiple prior drug-related convictions and convictions for failure to stop for blue light, driving under suspension, and hit-and-run resulting in property damage and minor injury. Mellette had prior convictions for failure to stop for a blue light, driving under suspension, unlawful distribution to a minor, and public disorderly conduct. Holland had multiple convictions for assault and battery and possession.
The sentences handed down to the three men mark a significant victory in the fight against drug trafficking in South Carolina. The investigation and subsequent convictions demonstrate the commitment of law enforcement agencies to combating the scourge of narcotics and keeping communities safe.
📋 Key Facts
- Crime: Drug Trafficking
- Defendant: South Carolina
- Location: SC
- Source: DOJ Press Release
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