An investigation into the shocking allegations of sexual assault made by Rep. Nancy Mace against her former fiancé has been ongoing for over a year, as confirmed by South Carolina state police. The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division initiated the probe into Mace’s ex-partner, Patrick Bryant, on Dec. 14, 2023, following allegations of assault, harassment, and voyeurism brought to their attention by US Capitol Police.
According to a statement from the agency, SLED has conducted numerous interviews, executed multiple search warrants, and compiled a comprehensive case file that will be made available once the investigation is concluded. The investigation is described as complex and involves multiple legal professionals. Upon completion, the case will be forwarded to a prosecutor for review.
Rep. Nancy Mace, a Republican from South Carolina, accused Bryant and three business associates of committing rape and other sexual offenses against her and a group of other women and underage girls. Bryant has since denied these allegations. Mace claimed to have discovered a vast collection of over 10,000 videos and images on Bryant’s phone in November 2023, which included explicit content of female employees, wives of male employees, and underage girls.
During a speech on the House floor, Mace detailed the horrific contents of the digital files, alleging that the videos depicted nonconsensual acts and exploitation of women and girls. She recounted finding a video of Bryant and another individual recording the sexual assault of an incapacitated woman, leading her to realize that one woman had been unknowingly raped. Mace also revealed that she found a video of herself undressed and unaware of being filmed, which resulted in Bryant physically assaulting her.
The congresswoman disclosed that she was forced to leave her home and go into hiding after confronting Bryant, moving multiple times and experiencing post-traumatic stress disorder as a result of the ordeal. She vehemently denied any suggestions that the allegations were fabricated or stemmed from consensual activities, emphasizing that the case involved predatory behavior towards women.
Mace also accused one of Bryant’s associates of attempting to intimidate her and criticized South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson for allegedly stalling the investigation and failing to protect female victims. She challenged anyone to arrest her for standing up for women and bringing evidence of crimes like voyeurism, rape, and sex trafficking to light.
In response to Mace’s allegations, the South Carolina Attorney General’s office refuted her claims, labeling them as politically motivated and lacking factual basis. The office stated that they had not received any reports or requests for assistance regarding the matter and emphasized the role of local law enforcement agencies in investigating potential crimes.
Patrick Bryant has denied the accusations against him, expressing a willingness to cooperate with any legal processes to clear his name. The case continues to unfold, with Mace determined to seek justice for herself and the other victims of the alleged crimes. If you have been a victim of sexual assault, there are resources available for support and counseling, such as the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-4673.
