3 arrested in Charleston property crime spree, police say

CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD) – Authorities arrested three people in connection with a series of property crimes in the downtown Charleston area following a months-long investigation.

The Charleston Police Department (CPD) announced Tuesday that 30-year-old Quantero Phillips, 52-year-old Marlin Smalls, and 36-year-old Michael Drayton are charged with nearly 30 property crimes that stemmed from incidents dating back to September 2023.

Police say the three individuals have a history of property crimes.

Phillips, who is from Moncks Corner, has numerous charges including four counts of breaking into a motor vehicle, nine counts of financial transaction card fraud, three counts of financial transaction card theft, multiple property crime enhancement charges, and second-degree burglary.

Smalls, a resident of North Charleston, is charged with breaking into a motor vehicle, financial transaction card theft, financial transaction card fraud, and a probation violation with the South Carolina Department of Probation, Parole, and Pardon Services.

Drayton, from Charleston, is charged with breaking into a motor vehicle, financial transaction card theft, and financial transaction card fraud.

“The Charleston Police Department acknowledges that property crimes impact more individuals in our community than other types of crimes. It is crucial to safeguard against these crimes of opportunity,” the agency said in announcing the arrests. “We strongly advise removing all valuables from your vehicles, ensuring your vehicle doors are locked, parking in well-lit areas, removing and securely storing all firearms, and vigilantly reporting any suspicious activity.”

All three are being housed at the Al Cannon Detention Center.