Cathy’s Cry for Justice: 80 Arrested in Little River Crime Crackdown
Little River, SC — The quiet coastal community of Little River was shaken to its core in recent months by a wave of violent crimes—murders, drug trafficking, and gang activity that left residents living in fear. Now, in a sweeping crackdown that authorities say has dismantled a web of violence stretching from Little River to Loris, 80 individuals have been arrested in one of Horry County’s largest joint law enforcement operations to date.
Among those watching the news unfold was Cathy Simmons, a lifelong Little River resident who lost her nephew to gun violence earlier this year. “I just want peace. I want our children to walk the streets without fear,” she said through tears. “This isn’t just about arrests—it’s about saving lives.”
Over two weeks, federal and local agencies executed targeted raids, seizing 58 firearms, large quantities of fentanyl, meth, crack cocaine, and more than \$18,000 in cash. Authorities confirmed that at least 40 of those arrested are confirmed gang members, tied to multiple violent incidents including carjackings and drive-by shootings.
“This is a message to those who terrorize our neighborhoods: we will not stand by,” said Horry County Police Chief Joseph Hill.
As the full list of names and charges was released, families across the region felt a wave of mixed relief and grief—hope that justice is taking root, but sorrow for the pain left behind.
For Cathy and many others, the arrests are just the beginning. “We have to heal now,” she said, holding a photo of her nephew. “But today, I feel like justice finally knocked on our door.”
The community, bruised but unbroken, now faces the long road to recovery—with hope in hand.
