3 arrested in drug bust

By JOE PERRY
Item Senior Staff Writer
jperry@theitem.com

DALZELL — Three people were arrested Thursday and are facing drug charges after crack, cash and scales were seized at a home.

Robert D. Osborne, 23, of 5665 Peach Orchard Road, was charged with trafficking crack cocaine and driving under suspension; Santana P. Osborne, 21, of the same address, was charged with trafficking crack cocaine; and Tyrique R. Smith, 21, of 3230 Starview Drive, Dalzell, was charged with trafficking crack cocaine and possession of marijuana, according to a release from the Sumter County Sheriff's Office.

Agents with the Sumter County Drug Team and sheriff's office investigators executed the search warrant at the Osbornes' address and seized 12 grams of crack valued at $2,400, a gram of marijuana, a set of electronic scales, $2,700 in cash and clothes that appeared to be stolen as security devices were still attatched.

Sheriff Anthony Dennis said Friday the operation is an example of ongoing efforts to reduce crime.

"We've had some complaints on that location before," he said, citing the investigative work that led up to the arrests.

Public records show Robert Osborne was charged with murder two years ago for allegedly shooting and killing a 42-year-old man on Mayrant Road after an argument. Robert Osborne fled to Maryland but turned himself in to authorities in that state a few days after the October 2007 incident. According to the jail's Web site, Robert Osborne is also awaiting trail on an armed robbery charge.

Information on bond hearings was unavailable.

Contact Senior Staff Writer Joe Perry at jperry@theitem.com or (803) 774-1272.