South Carolina Lawmaker RJ May Arrested Amid Ongoing Investigation

COLUMBIA, S.C. — South Carolina State Representative R.J. May was arrested and booked into the Lexington County Detention Center on Wednesday. At 38 years old, May’s arrest comes amid a federal investigation, though details regarding the specific charges remain unclear.

According to jail records, May’s booking information included a hold for the United States Marshals Service, but this detail was later removed from the county’s booking website. Efforts to reach the U.S. Attorney's Office and the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division for comments were unsuccessful.

May has served as the representative for House District 88 since 2021. He is known as a co-founder of the South Carolina Freedom Caucus, a group advocating for more conservative policies within the Republican Party. He was re-elected in November 2024 after running unopposed in both the primary and general election.

In August 2024, federal Homeland Security Investigations agents conducted a raid on May’s home, seizing various electronic devices, including cellphones and hard drives. An unsealed court document indicated that prosecutors expected to indict May by March 2025. However, the nature of the charges remained undisclosed.

Following May’s arrest, the Freedom Caucus released a statement calling for his resignation. They emphasized that May has not been involved in their operations since August 2024. The group highlighted their commitment to the rule of law as they addressed the situation.

During the most recent legislative session, May was present but notably refrained from participating actively in debates, remaining largely silent and seated at his desk. His lack of engagement was striking compared to his previous, more vocal roles in earlier sessions.

May stated earlier this year, “The people of District 88 elected me to do a job, and that’s what I’m here to do,” indicating his intention to serve despite the investigation. As the situation develops, updates will follow.