Distribution of Fentanyl

In May of 2018 the Narcotic Unit of the Laurens County Sheriff’s Office began investigating the death of an individual on Warrior Creek Church Rd in Laurens County. Investigators learned the victim died from fentanyl poisoning and began working to determine where the victim obtained the pills. 

During the investigation, the Narcotic Unit made several undercover drug buys from Quinton Lashawn Watts, in which Mr. Watts sold various quantities of pills which contained fentanyl. During the investigation, Investigators obtained evidence which linked Mr. Watts to the victim’s death. This investigation led to Mr. Watts being charged with Involuntary Manslaughter, Possession with Intent to Distribute Marijuana, and three counts of Distribution of Fentanyl, a schedule II-controlled substance. Mr. Watts was arrested on October 15, 2018 without incident. Investigators executed three search warrants on properties associated with Mr. Watts. During the execution of these search warrants, investigators seized numerous firearms, a quantity of marijuana, two motorcycles, and various other items of evidentiary value. “I first want to say that our thoughts and prayers are with the victim’s family. Although nothing will ease the pain of losing a loved one, we hope this will bring them some much needed peace and closure. They lost a loved one because of this poison and they are really hurting. I would ask that everyone respect their privacy during this difficult time.”

“These types of cases are extremely difficult to investigate, as well as prosecute, but fortunately we were able to obtain substantial evidence against Mr. Watts and hold him accountable for selling this poison in our community. I’m proud of our investigative team for the work they’ve done, and I’ll continue my commitment to rid this county of anyone selling such poison.” - Sheriff Don Reynolds Side Note: Many of you have called asking about Mr. Watts affiliation with a youth sports team. During the course of this investigation the Laurens County Sheriff’s Office was never aware that he was employed, and we were not aware that he was coaching a youth sports team. We didn’t become aware of this until after Mr. Watts was arrested. We did everything in our power to investigate this incident and hold this guy accountable. Any questions related to the vetting of any staff, employees, or volunteers with which he was affiliated should be directed to the Executive Director of Parks and Recreation with Laurens City. Here is the website for this, https://www.cityoflaurenssc.com/.