In a document filed Tuesday, Wright’s defense team argues his sentence should focus on parole, community service and substance abuse treatment rather than lengthy prison time.
“Mr. Wright sought medical treatment for addiction to prescription medications even before any charging instrument was filed or even discussed,” the memo says.
Wright, who had been sheriff of Spartanburg since 2004 before resigning in 2025, pleaded guilty last year to federal charges of conspiracy to commit fraud and obtaining controlled substances by misrepresentation. Court documents show restitution could cost Wright over $460,000, and he could spend over three years in prison.
After Wright’s defense asked the judge to consider a lesser sentence, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of South Carolina filed a memorandum firing back.
“Chuck Wright broke the public’s trust through years-long fraud and corruption schemes,” it reads.
Wright’s two co-defendants are scheduled to be sentenced July 9.
The sentencing of all three men will be held in Greenville.
