The following statement is being shared to provide transparency and allow the public to hear directly from the individual involved regarding recent legal and political developments in Blythewood, South Carolina. This message reflects personal views, experiences, and concerns about governance, accountability, and due process, and is presented in full to ensure clarity and accuracy without interpretation or alteration.

Today, I (Fred Layman) turned myself in on a warrant that I firmly believe I do not deserve. This action is the result of political retribution by the mayor and distracts from the real issues facing our community. This is the second time the mayor has falsely imprisoned my family. The first one resulted in my wife’s heart attack.

I recognize that genuine reform in government requires individuals in senior positions to have the courage to speak out and tell the truth, regardless of the cost to their reputations. I will wear this indictment as a badge of honor. My family and I have played a significant role in changing the form of government in Blythewood, South Carolina. Our committed service to what is right and honorable will benefit many lives, guiding us toward a more just, honest, and inclusive future for our town and its residents.

My statement is direct:
I am not guilty of the charges.
The actions taken against me are politically motivated and aimed at silencing dissent.
The mayor’s pattern of behavior continues to cost taxpayers money and ruin lives in our community.

I call on the Town Council and Congressman Joe Wilson to conduct an independent investigation into the mayor’s conduct. We need a full, transparent 360-degree review of this case to ensure due process is upheld. Our community deserves accountability, integrity, and a focus on solving the problems we face, not political retaliation that wastes taxpayer dollars and fractures trust.

I remain committed to advocating for:
Fiscal responsibility and proper use of public amenities and funds
Fair treatment and due process for all residents and town staff.

I look forward to a weak-mayor form of government in which the town council would hold executive authority, including appointing and removing employees and hiring a town manager to serve as the chief executive rather than the mayor.

I am confident the Town Council will choose what is right for the Town of Blythewood, even at the expense of their own reputation. Making the right call isn’t always easy, but integrity and character ensure that hard decisions steer the town on an honest course.

Let’s build tomorrow’s future, today.

I appreciate your support.