A freshman Republican was charged today with possession of a controlled substance stemming from an Oct. 29 incident in D.C. that allegedly involved cocaine.
Rep. Trey Radel (R-Fla.) will be arraigned tomorrow on the misdemeanor charge issued via a D.C. Superior Court Grand Jury indictment.
“I’m profoundly sorry to let down my family, particularly my wife and son, and the people of Southwest Florida,” Radel said in a statement released after the news broke. “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,” the 37-year-old congressman continued. “However, this unfortunate event does have a positive side. It offers me an opportunity to seek treatment and counseling.”
Radel added that by facing his problem and overcoming it he can become “an example for others struggling with this disease.”
Radel is a member of the House Foreign Affairs and Transportation committees. He cast House votes the day of the arrest and the day after.
He faces a maximum penalty of 180 days behind bars and up to a $1,000 fine.
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