Federal Jury Convicted Charleston Man of Fentanyl Charges
A federal jury found 29-year-old Deandre Malik Horry guilty of trafficking fentanyl and firearm offenses.
Updated on Sept. 28, 2026 in Drug Crime
Deandre Malik Horry was convicted by a federal jury for participating in a drug conspiracy involving at least 40 grams of fentanyl. The 29-year-old defendant now faces a mandatory minimum of 10 years in federal prison.
Why it matters
This conviction concludes a federal investigation into a drug conspiracy that operated from 2020 until July 2022. The case highlights federal efforts to dismantle local fentanyl distribution networks.
A federal jury returned a guilty verdict following a two-day trial. The defendant faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years, with final sentencing pending a pre-sentence report review by U.S. District Judge Richard E. Myers, II.
The players
Deandre Malik Horry
He is a 29-year-old resident of Mount Pleasant convicted of federal drug and firearm charges.
Richard E. Myers, II
He is a U.S. District Judge presiding over the case who will determine the defendant's final sentence.
The details
Federal agents observed Horry engaged in a drug transaction before North Charleston police conducted a traffic stop on July 11, 2022. During the search, officers discovered 11 grams of fentanyl, a loaded Glock pistol, and $1,400 in cash.
Timeline
The drug conspiracy operated from 2020 through July 2022.
A traffic stop occurred on July 11, 2022.
The federal jury trial concluded on September 28, 2026.
Legal Context
This prosecution fits into federal efforts to address the rising prevalence of synthetic opioids through enhanced mandatory sentencing guidelines. The case reflects a broader shift toward prioritizing federal oversight in local drug trafficking and illegal firearm possession investigations.
The conviction removes a local drug distributor from the community after federal authorities observed and investigated his operations in North Charleston. Residents may see continued federal and local coordination aimed at deterring fentanyl trafficking in the area.
The takeaway
This case underscores the severe legal consequences associated with fentanyl distribution and the possession of firearms during drug transactions. Individuals involved in such activities remain a primary target for federal prosecution in the Charleston area.
Further reading
For more on local law enforcement efforts, visit the Drug Crime section.
