Aiken Mayor Teddy Milner is being investigated by the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division.
The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division confirmed Tuesday afternoon that it was investigating an allegation that Milner exploited a vulnerable adult.
Milner’s attorney, Chris Austin, said she vehemently denies any wrongdoing.
“Unfortunately, Mayor Milner is currently facing unwarranted scrutiny amidst a highly publicized situation characterized by unfounded accusations,” Austin said in a statement. “It is regrettable that her accusers did not opt for direct resolution of this personal family matter, depriving my client the chance to address and refute the allegations without undue publicity.”
Austin said Milner is “fully committed” to cooperating with SLED during the investigation. He added they remain confident the allegations will prove unsubstantiated.
“I have been in communication with the SLED special agent overseeing the investigation, and we anticipate participating in an interview shortly, once SLED has completed its information gathering process,” Austin said. “While no specific requests have been made of us thus far, we are actively compiling relevant information and documentation to support SLED in its investigation.”
The specifics of the allegations being made against Milner are unknown.
Austin said as he understands it the allegations of exploiting a vulnerable adult were initially reported the South Carolina Department of Social Services.
The department of social services referred the matter to the Aiken Department of Public Safety, Austin continued.
Then, on Feb. 29, Aiken Department of Public Safety Director Charles Barranco requested SLED investigate the matter, SLED public information officer Renée Wunderlich said Tuesday.
“Recognizing the conflict of interest, the case was subsequently sent to the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) in accordance with standard protocol for handling such allegations,” Austin added.
Milner, Aiken’s first female mayor, was sworn into office Nov. 27, 2023.
“I’m sure our best days are ahead, so let’s get to work,” Milner said after being sworn in.
Milner, who was 76 at the time, did not face an opponent in the Nov. 7 election.
However, she defeated incumbent Rick Osbon by 14 votes in an Aug. 22, 2023 runoff to determine the Republican mayoral nominee.
She said the results marked the end of her campaign but the beginning of her efforts to bring accountability, integrity and transparency to the city.
Milner owns It’s All Good Market and Catering.
