Columbia, SC, September 13, 2025
News Summary
Two men from Columbia have been sentenced for their involvement in a drug trafficking operation that included cocaine and fentanyl distribution. Drain Maurice Mazone was sentenced to 13 years, while Clinton Raymond Donaldson received a three-year sentence. The investigation was part of a broader initiative to combat organized crime and drug trafficking, highlighting the ongoing challenges and law enforcement’s efforts to address this crisis.
Columbia Men Sentenced to Federal Prison for Drug Trafficking
Columbia, SC – Two men from the Columbia area have been sentenced in federal court for their roles in a significant drug distribution operation. Drain Maurice Mazone, 54, of Irmo, has been sentenced to 13 years in federal prison, while Clinton Raymond Donaldson, 42, of Columbia, received a three-year prison sentence.
The charges stem from their conspiracy to possess and distribute over five pounds of cocaine, approximately .9 pounds of fentanyl, and unspecified quantities of marijuana and crack cocaine. The illegal substances were shipped from Arizona to South Carolina, with their distribution extending to various locations, including Columbia, Florence, Myrtle Beach, and even parts of North Carolina, Maryland, and Florida.
Mazone was identified as the leader of the drug distribution network, while Donaldson contributed by providing addresses for shipments and facilitating the delivery of drugs. The sales proceeds from these drugs were sent back to their Arizona distributor.
Details of the Operation
Both Mazone and Donaldson, along with two unnamed accomplices, pleaded guilty to the federal charges against them. Under federal law, there is no possibility of parole for these sentences. Mazone will be subject to five years of supervised release following his time in prison, whereas Donaldson will be under supervision for three years after completing his imprisonment.
Investigation and Prosecution
The arrests of Mazone and Donaldson were part of a broader initiative conducted under the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF), which aims to combat high-level drug trafficking and organized criminal operations in the United States. The investigation was carried out collaboratively by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the U.S. Postal Service.
The case was prosecuted by U.S. Attorney William K. Witherspoon, who emphasized the importance of tackling major drug trafficking operations that pose a significant threat to communities.
Background Context
Drug trafficking remains a persistent issue in the United States, affecting families and communities nationwide. This case underscores law enforcement’s commitment to addressing the opioid crisis and the distribution of dangerous substances like fentanyl, which has become a major concern due to its potency and the risk it poses to public safety.
As law enforcement agencies continue to work together to dismantle drug distribution networks, cases like that of Mazone and Donaldson highlight the ongoing challenges posed by drug trafficking and the resolve of local and federal authorities to combat this growing problem.
FAQs
What were Drain Maurice Mazone and Clinton Raymond Donaldson sentenced for?
They were sentenced for coordinating drug trafficking operations involving cocaine, fentanyl, marijuana, and crack cocaine.
How long are their prison sentences?
Drain Maurice Mazone received a 13-year sentence, while Clinton Raymond Donaldson was sentenced to three years in federal prison.
What will happen to them after serving their sentences?
Drain Maurice Mazone will have five years of supervised release, and Clinton Raymond Donaldson will be under supervision for three years following their prison sentences.
Key Features of the Case
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Leaders | Drain Maurice Mazone and Clinton Raymond Donaldson |
| Sentences | Mazone: 13 years; Donaldson: 3 years |
| Types of Drugs | Cocaine, fentanyl, marijuana, crack cocaine |
| Distribution Regions | South Carolina, North Carolina, Maryland, Florida |
| Investigative Agencies | DEA, U.S. Postal Service |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Gaffney Woman Faces Serious Consequences in Drug Case
Gaffney’s Drug Scene Shaken By Major Guilty Plea
Additional Resources
- Columbia Basin Herald: 2 Moses Lake Men Arrested in Drug Distribution Case
- Wikipedia: Drug Trafficking
- ABC Columbia: Columbia Man Sentenced for Distribution of Meth & Fentanyl
- Google Search: Drug Trafficking in Columbia
- KRCG 13: Columbia Man Arrested in Drug Trafficking Case
- Google Scholar: Drug Trafficking Columbia
- Washington Post: Columbia Drug Trafficking Negotiations
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Drug Trafficking
Author: STAFF HERE CLINTON
The CLINTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREClinton.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Clinton, Laurens County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Festival of Discovery, Clinton Community Day, and performances at the Whitten Center Amphitheater. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Clinton Area Chamber of Commerce and the Laurens County Historical Society, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and education that power the local economy such as Milliken & Company and Presbyterian College. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
