NBC News – by Michael O’BrienA first-term Florida Republican congressman has been charged with misdemeanor possession of a controlled substance, according to charges filed in Washington, D.C., superior court on Tuesday.
Rep. Trey Radel, R-Fla., faces arraignment on Wednesday in Washington. He was arrested on Oct. 29 for alleged possession of cocaine, which was first reported by Politico. The charge carries a statutory maximum sentence of 180 days of imprisonment and/or a fine of $1,000, according to the U.S. Attorney’s office.
Radel released the following statement on Tuesday:
“I’m profoundly sorry to let down my family, particularly my wife and son, and the people of Southwest Florida. 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.
In facing this charge, I realize the disappointment my family, friends and constituents must feel. Believe me, I am disappointed in myself, and I stand ready to face the consequences of my actions.
However, 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.
Please keep my family in your prayers.”
“Members of Congress should be held to the highest standards, and the alleged crime will be handled by the courts,” said Michael Steel, a spokesman for House Speaker John Boehner, R-Ohio. “Beyond that, this is between Rep. Radel, his family, and his constituents.”
A former actor, comedian and conservative media personality, Radel was elected last fall from a district in south Florida. He’s spoken openly about his interest in making the Republican Party seem “cool” to a younger generation, calling himself a “hip hop conservative.”
NBC News’ Frank Thorp contributed reporting.
He’s spoken openly about his interest in making the Republican Party seem “cool” to a younger generation, calling himself a “hip hop conservative.”
ahhhh hahahahahahaha
No you’re a douche bag.
Whats this Maximum sentence thing? In NY growing up it was a MINIMUM sentence not a max.
Wonder if it was his stash or Barry-O’s?
Here we go AGAIN; a swarm of Hilltop rehab seekers to evade prosecution & prison.
See what them politicions do. That guy from Canada, that Marian Berry guy, haha obama, etc. etc. too many of those crack heads to count. Oh I forot to mention crack head bush jr. . When I got caught with a couple of joints I had to do time, what kind of time are these crack heads gonna do. Hell, I could use something once in a while too but I cannot afford it much less the time I would be sure to have to do if I got caught with even somw used chore boy 🙁