News Summary
Chuck Wright, the former sheriff of Spartanburg County, is set to plead guilty to multiple federal charges including wire fraud and drug misuse. His resignation and upcoming plea mark a significant downfall for a long-standing political figure, who once enjoyed strong community support. Ongoing investigations unveiled serious allegations of nepotism, fraud, and misuse of taxpayer funds, highlighting the urgent need for oversight in local law enforcement agencies.
Spartanburg County, South Carolina — Former Sheriff Chuck Wright plans to plead guilty to multiple federal charges, marking a significant downfall for a figure who served as sheriff for two decades and was a well-known political figure in the county. This was announced on September 26, 2025, following Wright’s resignation earlier in May 2025 amid serious allegations of nepotism, fraud, drug use, and retaliation against political opponents.
Wright, who first took office in 2004, displayed a strong political presence, easily winning the 2024 Republican primary against challenger Nick Duncan and was predicted to win the upcoming November election uncontested. However, since taking a leave of absence earlier this year, his reputation has been severely tarnished due to ongoing investigations into his conduct.
Local officials, including Spartanburg County Council Chairman Manning Lynch, have expressed a desire for closure and preventive measures against future abuses of power by sheriffs. Discussions are underway between Lynch and Rep. Travis Moore regarding possible legislative oversight of sheriffs in South Carolina. Moore shared concerns about systemic issues, noting that at least seven sheriffs in the state have faced indictments connected to misconduct since 2019.
Wright’s case involves serious allegations including wire fraud conspiracy, obtaining controlled substances through misrepresentation, and conspiracy to commit theft concerning federally funded programs. He is accused of misappropriating taxpayer funds to cover personal expenses such as travel, food, clothing, and drugs, which has elicited a strong response from county leaders who are closely monitoring the situation due to their fiduciary responsibilities.
In total, prosecutors claim that Wright and two co-defendants, Amos Durham and Lawson Berry Watson, misappropriated approximately $28,240 from the sheriff’s office benevolence fund, meant to assist deputies in need, for personal use. Wright is further accused of allowing Watson, a relative, to improperly receive around $200,000 in paychecks and benefits for work he did not perform. These allegations came to light during a police investigation into a domestic incident at Watson’s home.
Wright faces severe penalties, including a $250,000 fine and potential prison time. The former sheriff reportedly diverted public funds to finance a lifestyle outside the law and is required to forfeit at least $250,000 as part of his plea agreement. If he fails to comply, he could face additional prison time.
As part of the ongoing investigation, Wright unlawfully obtained 147 pain pills using a drug disposal program as a front for personal use. The federal investigation, which began around April 2025, coincided with Wright’s leave of absence. His legal troubles reflect a stark contrast to his previous standing in a community where he was once held in high esteem.
Further complications arise as the State Law Enforcement Division (SLED) and the State Ethics Commission are reviewing Wright’s actions, following the establishment of probable cause in four ethics complaints against him, linked to his misuse of office and alleged misconduct.
As this situation unfolds, it serves as a reminder of the importance of integrity in public office and the consequences of abuse of power. This case highlights the needs for increased oversight in law enforcement agencies, particularly as the community seeks to recover from this significant breach of trust.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Investigation Into Alleged Teacher-Student Relationship at Boiling Springs High School
Former Police Chief Escapes from Arkansas Prison
Alarming Abuse Cases Erupt in Spartanburg County Schools
Spartanburg Community Reacts to Former School Employee’s Sentencing
Alabama Man Sentenced to Almost Two Years for Threatening Calls to Atlanta District Attorney and Sheriff
Letcher County Community in Shock Amid Harrowing Shooting Incident; Details of Victim and Suspect Emerge
Ex-Illinois Deputy with Disciplinary Past, Sean Grayson, Faces Murder Charges in Sonya Massey’s Fatal Shooting
Additional Resources
- Goupstate
- The State
- WYFF4
- Fox Carolina
- FitsNews
- Wikipedia: Chuck Wright
- Google Search: Chuck Wright Spartanburg Sheriff federal charges
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Chuck Wright
- Google News: Chuck Wright Spartanburg Sheriff news
Author: STAFF HERE SPARTANBURG
The SPARTANBURG STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESpartanburg.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Spartanburg, Spartanburg County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Spartanburg International Festival, Spartanburg ArtWalk, and motorsport events at Spartanburg Speedway. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Spartanburg Area Chamber of Commerce and the Spartanburg Regional Healthcare System Foundation, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and textiles that power the local economy such as BMW Manufacturing and Milliken & Company. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
