A multi-agency task force operation was conducted at FCI Bennettsville in South Carolina from August 3 to August 6, 2026, to address contraband and enhance institutional safety and security. This joint effort highlights ongoing collaboration to maintain secure correctional environments, a priority for law enforcement agencies across the state, including the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department which serves Chapin residents.
The Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) led the operation, with the Southeast Regional Office and the Department of Justice Office of the Inspector General at the forefront. Support was provided by the BOP’s National Gang Unit, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the District of South Carolina United States Attorney’s Office. Further assistance came from the South Carolina State Law Enforcement Division K-9 Units and K-9 Units from the Chesterfield and Marlboro County Sheriff’s Offices.
During the operation, teams successfully recovered various contraband items, including electronic devices, drugs, and homemade weapons. They also gathered gang-related intelligence from different areas within the institution. Following these actions, forty inmates were transferred to other facilities located in the Southeast Region. Partner agencies are currently evaluating the intelligence collected to determine subsequent steps.
This initiative reinforces the Federal Bureau of Prisons’ commitment to working with oversight and law enforcement partners to combat contraband threats and foster safe and secure correctional settings.
