Sumter County detention officer arrested for taking package with heroin, marijuana, cigarettes in jail parking lot

A Pinewood man is now behind bars after working in front of them after being arrested for his supposed part in a drug transaction in the Sumter County jail’s parking lot.

Marquis Shannon, of North Columbia Street, is accused of receiving a package containing suspected marijuana, heroin, cigarettes and cash from another individual in a parking lot at the Sumter County Sheriff’s Office Detention Center after midnight on July 31, according to Adrienne Sarvis, public information officer for the sheriff’s office.

The 25-year-old has been charged with possession with intent to distribute heroin, possession of marijuana, contraband, conspiracy and misconduct in office.

“When we say we will prosecute these crimes to the fullest, that includes officers,” Sumter County Sheriff Anthony Dennis said. “Our officers are held to a higher standard than the general public because of their decision to take the oath to uphold the law.”

Shannon was hired on May 22, 2017. He was transported to another detention center, the name of which Sarvis said will not be released. He was given a $30,000 surety bond.

An investigation is ongoing.