U.S. Rep. Trey Radel, Florida’s 19th Congressional District, was charged Tuesday with cocaine possession in Washington, D.C.
Radel, 37, a freshman congressman, will be arraigned Wednesday. He was arrested on October 29, and faces a maximum of 180 days in jail and a $1,000 fine.
Radel issued a statement that said he has problems with alcohol which led to an “extremely irresponsible choice.”
From the Washington Post:
“I’m profoundly sorry to let down my family, particularly my wife and son, and the people of Southwest Florida,” Radel said. “I struggle with the disease of alcoholism, and this led to an extremely irresponsible choice. As the father of a young son and a husband to a loving wife, I need to get help so I can be a better man for both of them.”
Radel continued: “… This unfortunate event does have a positive side. It offers me an opportunity to seek treatment and counseling. I know I have a problem and will do whatever is necessary to overcome it, hopefully setting an example for others struggling with this disease.”
A former talk show host and GOP favorite, Radel’s district includes Fort Myers, Naples, and Cape Coral.
