Republican Florida Rep. Trey Radel expressed that he is "profoundly sorry" after being arrested on October 29, as he was charged on Tuesday in Washington D.C. for misdemeanor cocaine possession, CBS News reported. Radel is scheduled to appear in court on Wednesday. The charge threatens a maximum of 180 days in jail with a possible fine up to $1,000, news reports said.
Radel, who is serving his first term in the U.S. House, said that he struggles with the "disease of alcoholism, and this led to an extremely irresponsible choice. Believe me I am disappointed in myself, and I stand ready to face the consequences of my actions," he said.
"However, this unfortunate event does have a positive side: It offers me an opportunity to seek treatment and counseling," he went on, requesting prayers for his family. "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," Rep. Radel continued.
Radal, a former television news anchor and conservative radio talk show host, represents Florida's 19th Congressional District, a coastal area of Southwest Florida including Fort Myers, Naples, Cape Coral, Bonita Springs and Marco Island.
"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," said House Speaker John Boehner.
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