Ex-SC Lawmaker Faces 20 Years in Child Abuse Case
1 week ago
Prosecutors are urging a federal judge to sentence former South Carolina Republican lawmaker R.J. May to 20 years in prison for distributing hundreds of videos depicting the sexual abuse of children.
May pleaded guilty last year to federal charges after admitting he shared graphic files on social media platforms over several days in 2024. Court documents say the material involved toddlers and young children and was distributed to multiple users across the country.
In sentencing filings, prosecutors argue May repeatedly revictimized the children by sharing the videos and say his actions were especially egregious given his role as a lawmaker who supported legislation aimed at protecting minors.
May is asking the judge for leniency and a significantly shorter sentence. In a statement to the court, he cited addiction issues and personal circumstances while expressing remorse for his actions.
Federal sentencing guidelines recommend a prison term of roughly 17 to 22 years. The judge is expected to hear arguments from both sides before issuing a final sentence.
May pleaded guilty last year to federal charges after admitting he shared graphic files on social media platforms over several days in 2024. Court documents say the material involved toddlers and young children and was distributed to multiple users across the country.
In sentencing filings, prosecutors argue May repeatedly revictimized the children by sharing the videos and say his actions were especially egregious given his role as a lawmaker who supported legislation aimed at protecting minors.
May is asking the judge for leniency and a significantly shorter sentence. In a statement to the court, he cited addiction issues and personal circumstances while expressing remorse for his actions.
Federal sentencing guidelines recommend a prison term of roughly 17 to 22 years. The judge is expected to hear arguments from both sides before issuing a final sentence.
