Federal Prosecutors Oppose Lower Sentence for Former Spartanburg County Sheriff Chuck Wright Amid Trust Betrayal Claims

Former Spartanburg County Sheriff Faces Tough Opposition in Sentencing Request

SPARTANBURG COUNTY, S.C. — In a dramatic turn of events, federal prosecutors have firmly opposed former Spartanburg County Sheriff Chuck Wright’s plea for a reduced prison sentence, emphasizing the betrayal of public trust during his lengthy tenure in office. Wright, who served as sheriff for over two decades, stepped down amid a federal investigation that unveiled a series of serious offenses.

Wright’s legal troubles began to unfold in April 2025 when FOX Carolina Investigates first reported on the FBI probe into his conduct. By October of the same year, he pleaded guilty to multiple federal charges, including embezzlement and misuse of funds.

On Tuesday, Wright’s defense team filed a motion seeking leniency, arguing that he has shown remorse and taken responsibility for his actions. However, the U.S. Attorney’s Office countered this claim in a newly filed motion, detailing how Wright exploited his position to deceive the very community he was sworn to protect.

Prosecutors likened Wright’s actions to a “chess game,” illustrating how he manipulated funds from the Spartanburg County Chaplain Benevolence Fund—originally established to assist deputies and their families during times of need. Instead of serving its intended purpose, Wright siphoned off more than $89,000 from the fund between 2018 and his resignation in 2025, using the money for personal expenses, including travel and to fuel his addiction to pain pills.

The fallout from Wright’s actions was particularly devastating for one deputy whose wife was battling stage 4 cancer. The family sought financial assistance from the Benevolence Fund, only to be turned away due to a lack of available funds, a direct result of Wright’s embezzlement.

In addition to the Benevolence Fund scandal, prosecutors revealed a “no-show” job scheme involving Wright’s cousin, L.B. Watson, who collected nearly $350,000 in paychecks for work he never performed. This scheme came to light after an anonymous tip prompted a county audit, leading to the federal investigation.

Wright’s defense has pointed to his struggles with addiction as a mitigating factor in his crimes. However, prosecutors acknowledged his addiction while asserting that it does not excuse the extensive harm caused by his actions. They emphasized that a Guideline sentence of 33-41 months is necessary to restore public trust in government.

As the case unfolds, Wright is set to be sentenced on July 7 at the federal courthouse in Greenville County, with his co-defendants facing sentencing shortly after on July 9. The community watches closely, hoping for accountability and a restoration of faith in their local leadership.