News Summary
RJ May, a Republican representative in South Carolina, has been arrested on ten counts of distributing sexual abuse material involving children. Using the alias ‘joebidennnn69’ on Kik, May allegedly shared files of child exploitation. Following an extensive investigation, he remains jailed without bail as prosecutors outline severe potential sentences. The case has raised alarms about May’s online identity use and the implications for his political career, especially amid his advocacy for child safety reforms. The incident has sparked widespread concern within the community and political realm.
South Carolina
RJ May, a Republican representative in the South Carolina House, was arrested and charged with ten counts of distributing sexual abuse material involving children. The charges stem from allegations that May used the screen name “joebidennnn69” to share files on the Kik social media platform. This incident has raised significant concern within the state and the broader political community.
May was apprehended at his residence in Lexington County following an extensive investigation conducted by federal authorities. A federal judge has ordered May to remain jailed without bail until his trial, which is now pending. The indictment claims that over a five-day period in spring 2024, May exchanged approximately 220 files depicting young children involved in sexual acts. Each charge carries potential prison sentences ranging from five to twenty years upon conviction. Prosecutors anticipate that May could face over a decade in prison if found guilty.
The investigation revealed that files were uploaded and downloaded using May’s home Wi-Fi network and cellphone, with some files traced directly to his internet addresses. During the arraignment, May’s attorney suggested that his Wi-Fi was publicly accessible, implying that someone else could have accessed it due to a possible exposed password.
Further scrutiny emerged regarding May’s activities in Colombia, where prosecutors are investigating whether he used a false identity during three visits to the country. Notably, videos were discovered on his laptop that allegedly show him engaging in sexual acts with individuals believed to be underage. Authorities seized multiple electronic devices from May, including a laptop, mobile phones, and hard drives, to assist in the investigation.
A special agent confirmed that accounts associated with May sent over 1,100 messages during the five days the Kik account was active. This elevated the seriousness of the charges against him, especially as May had previously called for heightened measures to ensure children’s safety in House discussions. His background includes being a founding member of the Freedom Caucus, which advocates for strict conservative values within the Republican Party.
May has faced increasing criticism due to his apparent use of fake identities online, including a Facebook account created under a pseudonym. Judge Shiva Hodges expressed concern for the safety of May’s two young children as well as the broader community when deciding against granting bail. Following his arrest, the Freedom Caucus suspended May’s membership and publicly called for his resignation from the legislature.
In the courtroom, May appeared in casual attire, wearing a T-shirt and shorts, and was seen blowing a kiss to his wife as the proceedings unfolded. His lawyer maintained that May could be a victim of framing and suggested political motivations from adversaries could be at play.
The impact of these allegations on May’s career and reputation within the GOP has prompted widespread concern and discussion. As the legal process unfolds, the situation continues to evolve and remains a point of contention within state politics and among voters.
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Author: STAFF HERE MYRTLE BEACH
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