Fall From Grace: Spartanburg Sheriff Chuck Wright Admits Guilt in Federal Charges Scandal

A man who once stood as the pinnacle of law and order in Spartanburg County has admitted to breaking the very laws he swore to uphold.

Former Sheriff Chuck Wright pleaded guilty to a slate of shocking federal charges, capping a dramatic downfall that has left local residents reeling.

The confession was a stunning moment of accountability.

Wright admitted to charges of wire fraud, conspiracy to commit theft from a federally funded program, and obtaining controlled substances by misrepresentation.

He now faces the possibility of up to 20 years in federal prison and substantial fines for his crimes.

According to federal prosecutors, Wright “abused his position as elected Sheriff... to siphon money from Spartanburg County.”

The details of his schemes paint a grim picture of betrayal.

Investigators revealed that Wright systematically stole from the Sheriff's Office Benevolence Fund, a charity created to help deputies and their families in times of crisis.

He used money meant for his own officers to fuel his personal life and a growing opioid addiction.

The former sheriff also admitted to illegally obtaining pain pills like oxycodone and hydrocodone through the department's drug take-back program, taking medications that were supposed to be destroyed.

The corruption didn't end there.

Court documents detailed how Wright used his county-issued credit card for a spree of personal purchases.

He spent thousands of dollars at restaurants and stores, including nearly $900 at Fuddruckers and over $300 at Chick-fil-A.

Digital purchases were also part of the scheme, with over $1,300 spent in the Apple App Store on games like Royal Match and Ramp Car Jumping.

Other personal expenses charged to taxpayers included 92 packs of cigarettes, an iPad from Best Buy, and even an at-home drug test kit purchased from CVS.

During his plea hearing, Wright spoke of a battle with opioid addiction and revealed he had suffered a heart attack earlier in the year.

In a statement released through his attorney, Wright expressed deep remorse.

“I broke the sacred trust the people of Spartanburg County placed in me,” the statement read.

“I do not have the words to adequately convey my remorse, my apologies, and my regret.”

He continued, stating he had “no excuses” for his actions and that he accepts “full responsibility.”

This plea marks the end of a law enforcement career that began in 1986.

As part of his agreement, Wright has relinquished his law enforcement certification, ensuring he can never again serve as an officer in South Carolina.

The community now waits for the final chapter in this saga, as a sentencing date has not yet been scheduled.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Spartanburg Sheriff Federal Charges

What was former Sheriff Chuck Wright charged with?

Chuck Wright pleaded guilty to three federal counts: conspiracy to commit theft concerning programs receiving federal funds, conspiracy to commit wire fraud, and obtaining controlled substances by misrepresentation.

How much prison time could Chuck Wright face?

The former Spartanburg sheriff could be sentenced to a maximum of 20 years in federal prison, in addition to significant financial penalties and restitution.

What did Chuck Wright say about his actions?

Wright issued a public apology, stating he “broke the sacred trust” of the people and that he accepts full responsibility for his crimes without excuse, citing a personal battle with opioid addiction.