Aiken Attorney Faces Hidden Camera Allegations

News Summary

The city of Aiken is in shock as attorney William Daniel Mayes is embroiled in a civil lawsuit and multiple criminal charges over hidden camera allegations. A woman claims she was recorded without consent in Mayes’ beachfront condo, prompting an investigation that revealed disturbing content. Mayes faces serious legal repercussions, including 22 criminal charges across multiple counties, raising concerns about privacy and trust in vacation rentals.

Aiken Attorney in Hot Water Over Hidden Camera Allegations

The city of Aiken is buzzing with outrage and disbelief as a local attorney finds himself embroiled in a shocking civil lawsuit and facing multiple criminal charges. The saga began with a lawsuit filed on January 7, 2025, against suspended Aiken attorney William Daniel “Danny” Mayes and his wife, Shannon. This lawsuit has brought to light disturbing allegations of hidden recordings made without consent in their beachfront condo.

What Happened at Folly Beach?

The controversy centers around an unnamed woman, who claims her privacy was violated while staying at the Mayes’ condo in Folly Beach. On July 9, 2021, the woman alleges she was recorded as she changed clothes in the privacy of a bedroom, a claim that is both unsettling and infuriating for anyone who values their personal space. Imagine finding out that someone had secretly filmed you in a moment of vulnerability; it’s enough to send chills down anyone’s spine.

The Investigation Unfolds

Things took a serious turn in October 2024 when Aiken County Sheriff’s deputies executed a search warrant on Mayes’ Dropbox account. This account had been flagged for potentially containing child sexual abuse material. What they uncovered was nothing short of appalling. Deputies discovered videos of the alleged victim alongside a disturbing collection of other recordings featuring nude individuals and children.

Among the files found was a folder ominously titled “Folly HC”, which contained videos of the alleged victim, even one that was a compilation set to music! No one should have to endure the trauma of finding such material without their consent, further underscoring the gravity of this situation.

Victim’s Distress and Legal Consequences

The woman at the center of this legal storm has reportedly expressed extreme distress over discovering these recordings. She fears that these videos may have been shared far and wide, leaving her feeling vulnerable and unsafe. Feeling violated is an understatement, and her pain resonates deeply within the community.

Meanwhile, the legal fallout for Danny Mayes is immense. As of November 1, the South Carolina Supreme Court suspended him from practicing law, but the legal troubles don’t stop there. He is facing a staggering 22 criminal charges across Aiken and Charleston counties.

Facing Serious Charges

To break it down, he has five counts of third-degree sexual exploitation of a minor and two counts of first-degree voyeurism in Aiken County alone. In Charleston County, he is looking at 14 counts of voyeurism and one additional count of first-degree sexual exploitation of a minor. These are not just minor charges; they are serious felonies that could lead to harsh penalties if convicted.

A Law Career in Ruins

Mayes had previously worked at a law firm known as Smith Massey Brodie Guynn and Mayes, but following these allegations, his information has been swiftly removed from their website. A once-respected attorney, his career now hangs in the balance as the legal system takes its course.

Conclusion

This case has sent shockwaves through Aiken, raising questions about privacy, consent, and trust, especially when renting vacation properties. The legal proceedings will unfold over time, but for the victim, the trauma caused by these incidents is immeasurable.

Aiken residents are watching closely, and as more details emerge, the community is ready for justice to be served. With such serious implications on the line, this case will certainly be one to follow.