Florida Rep. Trey Radel charged with cocaine possession

Nov. 19 (UPI) -- Florida Congressman Trey Radel was arrested at the end of October in Washington, D.C., and charged with possession of cocaine Tuesday.

Radel, a freshman Republican holding his first elected office, is expected in D.C. Superior Court Wednesday. He faces a maximum of 180 days in jail, and a possible fine of $1,000.

"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 Tuesday. "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."

"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. 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."

Radel, 37, was elected to Florida's 19th district when Connie Mack decided to run for Senate, a race Mack lost. He was born in Cincinnati and before running for congress worked as a radio host, television reporter and newspaper owner.

[USA Today]