Rep. Trey Radel (R-FL), a first-term congressman, apologized Tuesday after it was reported that he was charged in Washington, D.C. for possession of cocaine.
“I’m profoundly sorry to let down my family, particularly my wife and son, and the people of Southwest Florida,” he said in a statement. “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.”
The congressman is scheduled to appear before court in D.C. on Wednesday.
Radel, 37, is a former TV journalist, actor and comedian who was born in Cincinnati, Ohio and first elected to Congress in 2012. He sits on the House Committee on Foreign Affairs and the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure.
He’s among the more conservative members of the conference. He complained in April that the newly elected Republicans hadn’t yet had the change to vote to repeal Obamacare.
Radel’s statement continued:
“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.”
A spokesman for Speaker John Boehner (R-OH) said, “Members of Congress should be held to the highest standards, and the alleged crime will be handled by the courts. Beyond that, this is between Rep. Radel, his family, and his constituents.”
Read the D.C. court document charging Radel below.
Rep. Trey Radel Charging Document by tpmdocs
Correction: This article initially stated, based on reports, that Radel was arrested for possession of cocaine. It turns out he was charged but not arrested, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia. We regret the error.
