Routine Shoplifting Investigation at Palmetto State Armory Escalates After Horry County Deputies Uncover Unregistered Handgun and Illicit Narcotics
MYRTLE BEACH, SC — What began as a routine shoplifting call at a local firearm and outdoor store quickly escalated into a major criminal arrest involving illegal weapons and trafficking quantities of methamphetamine.
On Thursday, June 4, Horry County Sheriff’s deputies responded to a reported larceny in progress at the Palmetto State Armory located in Myrtle Beach. Store employees alerted authorities after witnessing two individuals attempt to steal a high-end firearm optic sight from the sales floor.
Upon arriving at the scene, deputies detained the suspects, identified as 21-year-old Joseph Blaine Cook and an unnamed 17-year-old female juvenile.
During a subsequent search of the individuals, law enforcement recovered the stolen firearm sight alongside an unregistered handgun, a loaded magazine, and extra ammunition. Beyond the weapons, deputies discovered that Cook was carrying a significant quantity of illicit narcotics and associated drug paraphernalia.
Cook was placed under arrest and transported to the local detention center. He faces multiple serious charges, including felony trafficking of methamphetamine and contributing to the delinquency of a minor.
The 17-year-old juvenile suspect was taken into custody and has been formally charged with shoplifting in connection with the initial theft attempt.
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