Spartanburg County, South Carolina – Former Sheriff Wright – Former Sheriff Wright, who served Spartanburg County for decades, has pleaded guilty to multiple federal charges this week, bringing a long-running corruption case to a public conclusion. Wright, 60, admitted to misusing county funds, diverting prescription drugs, and deceiving medical providers, shaking confidence in a law enforcement office long considered a cornerstone of the community.

According to investigators, Wright misused approximately $80,000 from a benevolence fund that was intended to assist deputies in need. Rather than supporting officers, the money was directed to a local drug dealer and to cover Wright’s personal expenses, including using a county-issued credit card for non-official purposes.

Federal authorities, including the FBI and the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division, conducted a meticulous investigation spanning several years. By combing through spending records, email communications, and other documentation, they uncovered a pattern of theft, wire fraud, and fraudulent acquisition of controlled substances.

Wright also took advantage of a prescription pill disposal program, diverting medications for personal use. Investigators determined that he obtained additional drugs by deceiving medical providers, adding to a trail of misconduct that stretched over many years and violated both state and federal laws.

The case was complicated by an atmosphere of fear inside the sheriff’s office. Employees and deputies who recognized Wright’s substance abuse and financial misconduct were reluctant to report it, fearing retaliation from the sheriff or his command staff. This climate of intimidation allowed the misconduct to continue unchecked for years.

In addition to Wright, two other individuals connected to the office faced consequences. A chaplain hired by Wright and another employee brought on by him each pleaded guilty to their roles in the scheme, further exposing a culture of mismanagement and unethical behavior that extended beyond the sheriff himself.

In court this week, Wright pleaded guilty to three federal charges: conspiracy to commit theft, wire fraud, and obtaining controlled substances through fraud. He now faces a potential sentence of nearly 30 years in prison and is required to pay at least $440,000 in restitution to Spartanburg County.

Through a statement released by his lawyers, Wright acknowledged his wrongdoing, took full responsibility for his actions, and expressed remorse to the citizens of Spartanburg County. He stated that he would never work in law enforcement again and apologized for the harm caused to officers, the public, and the integrity of the office.

The investigation and subsequent convictions have sent shockwaves through the Spartanburg County law enforcement community. Officers, residents, and local officials are grappling with how long the misconduct went unnoticed and what steps are needed to restore trust in the sheriff’s office.

This case underscores the challenges of accountability in law enforcement agencies, particularly when leadership misconduct is shielded by fear or intimidation. As Wright faces sentencing and restitution, the community reflects on the need for stronger oversight, transparency, and support for deputies who report misconduct.