Myrtle Beach Man Arrested in Major Drug Bust

News Summary

James Kelvin Watson, 48, of Myrtle Beach, was arrested during a significant drug operation resulting in the seizure of over four pounds of cocaine. Watson faces serious charges including trafficking cocaine and possession of controlled substances. Authorities also found $25,000 in cash at the time of his arrest. This operation involved collaboration between local law enforcement and federal agents, highlighting the community’s commitment to combatting drug trafficking. Watson is currently held on a bond of $1.3 million as legal proceedings begin.

Myrtle Beach Man Arrested in Major Drug Bust

In a significant crackdown on drug trafficking, a man from Myrtle Beach, James Kelvin Watson, 48, has been arrested following the seizure of over four pounds of cocaine. Authorities apprehended Watson on Wednesday, March 12, 2025, as part of a coordinated operation that included agents from the Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office Vice and Narcotics Unit, alongside the Horry County Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).

What Led to Watson’s Arrest?

Watson, who resides on N. Kings Highway in Myrtle Beach, finds himself in serious trouble with the law after being charged with multiple drug-related offenses. Specifically, he is facing two counts of trafficking cocaine, a major allegation that strongly emphasizes the scale of his alleged operations. Additionally, he is charged with maintaining a vehicle or dwelling place for controlled substances, which suggests that Watson may have been running a drug operation right from his own home or vehicle.

But that’s not all; he was also charged with possession with intent to manufacture, sell, or deliver marijuana, indicating that his narcotics activities extended beyond just cocaine. To top things off, authorities found drug paraphernalia in his possession, leading to another charge against him.

The Drug Bust: What Was Seized?

Law enforcement officials were thorough in their investigation and the subsequent arrest. During the operation, agents were able to seize approximately 4.32 pounds of cocaine. This quantity is significant and highlights the serious nature of the situation. Alongside the drugs, agents also confiscated plastic bags typically used for packaging drugs, a clear sign that Watson may have been preparing for further distribution.

Financial Findings

$25,000 in cash. This substantial amount of money further raises questions about the source of his income and the operations he was allegedly involved in. The presence of this cash could suggest a lucrative drug trade that the authorities have now disrupted.

Legal Proceedings

After his arrest, Watson was booked into the Brunswick County Detention Center. He is currently incarcerated under a hefty bond set at $1.3 million. The high bond reflects the serious nature of the charges against him and the potential penalties he faces if convicted. As the legal proceedings unfold, many will be closely following the developments in this case, given the implications it may have for the local community.

A Thank You to Law Enforcement

The Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office has expressed gratitude towards their partners in this operation, specifically recognizing the role of the Horry County Police Department and the ATF. This collaborative effort underscores the importance of teamwork in battling drug-related crime. Their combined efforts exemplify the community’s commitment to keeping streets safe and taking down individuals involved in drug trafficking.

In Summary

As this story develops, it serves as a reminder of the ongoing issues surrounding drug trafficking that affect communities far and wide. With leaders from local law enforcement agencies coming together to combat these problems, there is hope that more individuals like James Kelvin Watson will be brought to justice, thereby creating a safer environment for everyone. Stay tuned for more updates on this pressing issue!

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Additional Resources

• WECT News: Myrtle Beach Man Arrested in Major Drug Bust
• Wikipedia: Drug Trafficking
• State Port Pilot: Drug Arrest Coverage
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Drug Trafficking
• WWAY News: Myrtle Beach Man Arrested on Drug Charges