Overview of Allegations Against Attorney
A troubling case has emerged out of South Carolina involving an attorney, William “Danny” Mays, who faces serious legal repercussions for allegedly using hidden cameras to film minors and adults in compromising situations at a rented beach property. This incident, which has attracted public attention due to the nature of the allegations, involves both civil and criminal charges and raises significant concerns about privacy and safety in rental properties.
The Charges Detailed
Mays has been accused of negligence, intentional infliction of emotional distress, and invasion of privacy in a civil lawsuit filed on January 7, 2025, in Aiken County, South Carolina. The lawsuit alleges that he secretly recorded guests in his rental unit located on Folly Beach, a resort destination popular among families. Reports suggest that among the individuals filmed were children as young as 10 years old, raising the stakes considerably given the implication of the sexual exploitation of minors in the footage.
Criminal Proceedings
Previously, Mays was arrested in October and charged with seven counts related to the sexual exploitation of a minor. This arrest stemmed from findings by the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children which alerted authorities after a CyberTipline report highlighted Mays’s activities. The investigation revealed that he not only recorded individuals without their consent but was also found in possession of child sexual abuse material.
Legal Background of Mays
William Mays graduated from the University of South Carolina School of Law in 1995 and had been practicing in the fields of workers’ compensation, Social Security, and disability law. His practice was notably associated with Smith, Massey, Brody & Guinn in Aiken, South Carolina. Due to the severity of the allegations, his law license was suspended in November, and he has been removed from the law firm’s public roster.
Media Representation and Legal Responses
The attorneys involved in this case, particularly those representing Mays, have opted to remain tight-lipped. Desa Ballard, a senior partner at Ballard & Watson in West Columbia, South Carolina, has been designated as Mays’s legal representative but has declined to comment on the case publicly. In stark contrast, one of the plaintiffs’ attorneys, Deborah Barbier, has voiced robust criticism of Mays’s actions, mentioning the prevalence of hidden cameras in rental properties and the importance of holding such offenders accountable.
Continuing Developments
In addition to the civil suit, the Charleston County Sheriff’s Office has filed extensive charges against Mays, including 14 counts of first-degree voyeurism and one count of first-degree sexual exploitation of a minor. As of now, he is free on a bail amount set at $260,000. Current reports indicate that the investigations are ongoing, with implications that more charges could arise as evidence continues to surface.
The Role of Mays’s Spouse
Interestingly, Mays’s wife has also been named in the civil suit due to her role in managing the rental property where the incidents allegedly occurred. Although she has not been charged with any crimes, her involvement raises questions about potential negligence in ensuring the property’s safety and privacy for renters. This facet of the case highlights the broader implications for rental property management and the responsibilities that landlords hold.
Conclusion
The ongoing case involving William “Danny” Mays serves as a grim reminder of the potential dangers that exist within rental properties, particularly regarding privacy violations. The legal proceedings carry significant implications not only for Mays but also for other property owners, highlighting the necessity for stringent regulations to protect guests from similar violations. As the case unfolds, the outcome may lead to increased scrutiny of rental practices and the implementation of preventive measures.
FAQs
What are the specific charges against William Mays?
Mays faces civil charges for negligence, intentional infliction of emotional distress, and invasion of privacy. Additionally, he is charged with 14 counts of first-degree voyeurism and one count of first-degree sexual exploitation of a minor in criminal court.
When and where did the alleged incidents occur?
The incidents reportedly occurred at a beach rental unit on Folly Beach, South Carolina, where Mays allegedly installed hidden cameras to record guests without their knowledge.
What potential consequences could Mays face if convicted?
If convicted on the criminal charges, Mays could face significant prison time, fines, and registration as a sex offender, in addition to civil penalties associated with the lawsuit.
Is Mays’s wife facing any charges?
Currently, Mays’s wife has not been charged with any crimes but is named in the civil lawsuit due to her oversight of the rental property.
Who is representing the plaintiffs in the civil lawsuit?
The plaintiffs are represented by attorney Deborah Barbier, who emphasizes the need for accountability regarding hidden camera installations in rental properties.