MARLBORO COUNTY — An ongoing investigation is being conducted by the Marlboro County Sheriff’s Office into an incident where inmates overdosed while in custody, according to MCSO Chief Deputy Larry Turner.

Kimberly Locklear is wanted by deputies on charges of misprision of a felony and accessory after the fact of a felony related to the arrest of her husband, according to Turner.

Turner added Robert Keith Locklear, who was initially arrested earlier this month on prior drug charges, including fentanyl, trafficking meth, and possession of a controlled substance and was detained at the facility.

He said their investigation revealed that Locklear successfully introduced fentanyl into the detention center without detection during his initial arrest.

Locklear has been charged with two counts of distribution of fentanyl and one count of possession of contraband.

“The sheriff’s office will persist in pursuing all drug dealers to the fullest extent allowed by the law, particularly those distributing fentanyl,” said Sheriff Larry McNeil. “Following a recent arrest, it was discovered that fentanyl was smuggled into the detention center, resulting in two medical emergencies. These events highlight our ongoing need and commitment to crack down on drug distribution in our community.

“First, I emphasize the need for more rigorous searches of individuals prior to transporting them to the detention center and certainly upon arrival. We have charged the suspect involved and are actively pursuing the arrest of a second suspect involved in the cover-up. There is no justification for contraband entering the facility. Arresting officers and detention center staff will adhere to protocol. We have reviewed our policy with staff members and deputies, stressing the importance of these matters.

“It remains our responsibility to ensure necessary corrections are implemented, including protocols to ensure safety for those employed and detained at the jail. One instance is one too many. My goal is to serve all citizens of our county, and it is remains my duty to serve and protect, including those incarcerated.”

Anyone with information on Kimberly Locklear’s whereabouts is asked to contact the sheriff’s office tip line at 843-897-4818 or reach out via Facebook.

This is an ongoing joint investigation between the Investigations Division (MCSO) and the Marlboro Detention Center.