Seneca Man Sentenced for Drug Trafficking After Overturned Vehicle Incident

In Oconee General Sessions Court on Tuesday, David Wayne Howard pleaded guilty to drug trafficking and related traffic offenses stemming from a car rollover on Seneca’s Radio Station Road, receiving an 11-year prison sentence from Judge Sprouse with 537 days credited for time served awaiting trial. Prosecutor Chris Beeco reported that law enforcement recovered 129.5 grams of methamphetamine and a 9mm handgun at the accident scene, while detailing Howard’s extensive criminal history from 2012 to 2023, including offenses in Florida. Defense attorney Lee Cole acknowledged the record but argued Howard was not a major drug figure, using proceeds from sales to fund his own addiction, which began with cocaine in eighth grade. In his statement to the court, Howard expressed remorse, a desire to change his life, and a commitment to mentor young people against the dangers of drug use.