News Summary
Russell Lynch, a former lieutenant of the Spartanburg County Sheriff’s Office, was arrested in Mexico after unintentionally crossing the border with firearms. Lynch, who was relocating to Spartanburg from Montana, faces serious legal challenges, as he is held in a federal prison while awaiting trial on firearms-related charges. His family, expressing concern for his health and well-being, has started a GoFundMe campaign to help with legal expenses during this complicated situation.
Spartanburg, South Carolina – Former Lieutenant Russell Lynch of the Spartanburg County Sheriff’s Office was arrested on September 30 in Mexico after mistakenly crossing the border with firearms. The 67-year-old ex-Marine was transitioning from his home in Montana back to Spartanburg to be closer to his family when the incident occurred. Lynch, who previously ran for sheriff in 2016 but lost to Chuck Wright, had taken a scenic route through the Southwest and stayed overnight in Tucson, Arizona, before his crossing into Mexico.
Lynch was reportedly trying to enter Mexico as a pedestrian; however, he inadvertently entered through a vehicle lane. Lynch’s family confirmed that he had his guns with him during the crossing, but they stated he did not intend to bring them into Mexico. Currently, Lynch is being held in a federal prison in Hermosillo, Sonora, where he was scheduled to appear before a judge on October 2 about firearms-related charges.
In Mexico, foreigners generally cannot secure bail, complicating Lynch’s situation. His family, which is making arrangements for housing in Mexico, hopes for his release while awaiting trial. Legal proceedings can take anywhere from eight months to two years, and if convicted of the charges against him, Lynch could face a prison sentence ranging from seven to thirty years.
Adding to the complexity of Lynch’s case, he has a state-appointed attorney who does not speak English, raising concerns regarding communication between Lynch and his legal representation. Meanwhile, the office of U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham has reached out to Lynch’s family to offer support during this challenging time.
Community members describe Lynch as a well-regarded figure due to his long service in law enforcement. His family has expressed considerable concern for his health, noting that Lynch requires a double hip replacement and has previously dealt with skin cancer. His daughter, Lacy, has emphasized the former sheriff’s positive impact on the community, labeling the arrest as an unfortunate mistake.
To aid with the legal expenses incurred as a result of this incident, Lynch’s family has started a GoFundMe campaign. Incoming Spartanburg Sheriff Bill Rhyne, who personally knows Lynch from their time together in law enforcement, has also expressed his support for Lynch during this difficult period.
Lynch’s situation remains precarious, but his family’s hope for a favorable outcome continues as they navigate the legal complexities in Mexico.
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Additional Resources
- Post and Courier: Marine Arrested in Mexico
- Wikipedia: Firearms policy in Mexico
- GoUpstate: Lynch Turns Down Police Chief Post
- Google Search: Russell Lynch arrest Mexico
- FITSNews: Corruption Allegations Against Spartanburg Sheriff
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Legal System of Mexico
- Post and Courier: Spartanburg Sheriff Wright FBI Investigation
- Google News: Spartanburg Sheriff investigation
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.
