A Folly Beach condo owner faces charges for using a hidden camera to make secret recordings of guests in 2021 and 2022.
Secret Recordings Uncovered in Investigation
William Daniel Mayes, 54, was arrested on December 6 and charged with one count of first-degree sexual exploitation of a minor and 14 counts of voyeurism. Authorities allege Mayes, who resides in Aiken, South Carolina, used a hidden camera at his beach condo to secretly record individuals. These included a child and several adults in various stages of undress.
The case came to light when the Aiken County Sheriff’s Office received a tip about possible child sexual abuse material. Investigators found electronic files allegedly showing a 10-year-old child in a private setting, as well as recordings of adults. These files reportedly originated from a hidden camera placed in Mayes’ condo.
Mayes was released from Charleston County jail on December 7 after posting a $260,000 bond. His charges include crimes related to exploiting a minor and violating the privacy of others. Investigators believe the recordings were made without the victims’ knowledge or consent, raising serious privacy concerns.
This case highlights the dangers of hidden surveillance and emphasizes the importance of reporting suspicious activities to authorities.
