Rep. Trey Radel (R-FL) checked into a rehab facility in Florida on Thursday, after pleading guilty to a cocaine possession charge on Wednesday, Politico reports.
“Today, I checked myself into a facility to seek treatment and counseling,” Radel wrote in an statement to Politico. “It is my hope, through this process, I will come out a better man. I will work hard to gain back the trust and support of my constituents, friends and most importantly, my family.”
Radel did not say where the rehab facility is located or for how long he will be undergoing treatment.
Radel said in a news conference Wednesday night that he will take a leave of absence from the House and will donate his salary to charity during that time. He apologized for his actions, but said that he would like to remain in office.
“I’m struggling with this disease, but I can overcome it,” he said.
The freshman congressman was caught in October buying cocaine from an undercover police officer, and was sentenced Wednesday to a year probation with a $250 fine.
