8 arrested, weapons seized in Orangeburg County drug bust

ORANGEBURG, S.C. - The Orangeburg County Sheriff’s Office said the Community Response Team’s operation resulted in eight suspects being arrested and charged following a drug seizure.

These are the following suspects who were arrested and charged, according to sheriff’s spokesman Richard Walker:

• Emmanuel Raiford, 38, of Orangeburg, was charged with possession of 28 grams or less of marijuana, second or subsequent offense; possession of Schedule I narcotics, second offense; and possession of Schedule II narcotics, second offense.
• Anthony Googe, 51, of Orangeburg, was charged with possession with intent to distribute marijuana.
• Almonte Asbury, 28, of Holly Hill, was charged with two counts possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, possession with intent to distribute marijuana and possession of a stolen pistol.
• Nicole Smith, 42, of Holly Hill, was charged with possession of a stolen vehicle, financial transaction card fraud and second offense driving under suspension.
• Sharhonda Simpson, 36, of Orangeburg, was charged with forgery, identity fraud, altering a license and fraudulent application for a license.
• Kelijah Cave, 21, of Barnwell, was taken into custody on an Allendale County warrant.
• Two more unknown suspects were made on misdemeanor charges.

Sheriff Leroy Ravenell said the Community Response Team helped deputies conduct operations and help address crimes more effectively.

The drug operation occurred from Jan. 17 to Jan. 21 and netted a stolen vehicle, five firearms, 60 grams of marijuana, 30 grams of crack cocaine and an assortment of illegal pills.

The operation took place in areas in Vance, Highway 601 and Roosevelt Gardens.

“Somebody said the drug dealers at Roosevelt would just wait me out,” the sheriff said. “We’re still here.”

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