Politics

Rep. Trey Radel arrested for cocaine possession in DC

Taylor Bigler Entertainment Editor
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Rep. Trey “hip to the jive” Radel was arrested for cocaine possession in Washington, D.C. on Oct. 29, Politico reports.

The Florida GOP congressman’s string of ultra-bro behavior began in July, when the freshman rep live-tweeted a review of Jay-Z’s latest album “Magna Carta Holy Grail.

Radel — a self-described “Hip Hop Congressman” — used the words “sick” and “sick flow” to describe Jay-Z’s beats in a series of tweets that made him appear really, really cool.

Radel was arrested with misdemeanor possession of cocaine in D.C. Superior Court on Tuesday and is scheduled to appear in front of a judge on Wednesday.

The congressman’s Twitter account indicates that he appeared on Geraldo Rivera’s radio show the day of his arrest to talk #obamacare. In an interview with Roll Call in March, Radel listed his favorite vacation spot as Cartagena, Colombia. Three-quarters of the world’s cocaine comes from Colombia.

Radel’s office has not yet returned requests for comment.

UPDATE: Radel issued a statement apologizing for his actions Tuesday afternoon.

“I’m profoundly sorry to let down my family, particularly my wife and son, and the people of Southwest Florida. 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.”

“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.”

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Taylor Bigler