Jessica Gresko / AP
This photo taken with a cellphone shows Rep. Henry “Trey” Radel, R-Fla., leaving court in Washington, on Wednesday, Nov. 20, 2013, after pleading guilty to a misdemeanor charge of cocaine possession. He was sentenced to a year’s probation.
Thursday, Nov. 21, 2013 | 2:52 p.m.
CAPE CORAL, Fla. — Republican Congressman Henry "Trey" Radel (RAY'-dul) says he has checked himself into a Florida rehabilitation center after pleading guilty to cocaine possession this week.
The freshman lawmaker says he's seeking treatment and counseling and hopes to win back the trust of his constituents, friends and family.
Radel is taking a leave of absence from Congress and donating his salary to charity.
At a press conference Wednesday, he apologized and said he has been struggling with alcoholism and substance abuse "off and on for years." He said in a statement Thursday he has entered a rehabilitation center. He represents southwest Florida.
As part of a plea agreement, Radel acknowledged purchasing 3.5 grams of cocaine from an undercover police officer in Washington last month. He was sentenced to a year's probation.
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