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http://www.charlotte.com/205/story/209351.htmlS.C. treasurer resigns from office following drug indictmentBy SEANNA ADCOX Associated Press Writer COLUMBIA, S.C. -- South Carolina Treasurer Thomas Ravenel resigned from office Tuesday, more than a month after he was indicted on a federal cocaine charge.
"I'm deeply disappointed in myself for the circumstances surrounding my presence here today due to the personal mistakes I've made in my life," Ravenel, 44, said outside a courthouse where he appeared for the first time to face a charge of possession with intent to distribute less than 500 grams of cocaine.
His voice shaking, Ravenel apologized to South Carolinians.
"To the people of South Carolina and to my family, I am deeply sorry," he said. "Now in the best interest of our state, I believe I must resign."
He did not answer questions from reporters and left with his sisters supporting him on each arm.
His attorneys entered a not guilty plea on his behalf earlier this month.
Prosecutors have said Ravenel shared the cocaine with his friends and did not sell the drug. He spent 30 days in a rehabilitation program in Arizona before returning to South Carolina on Sunday.
The millionaire developer's resignation was effective Tuesday.
Ravenel, a Republican, had been considered a rising political star before his indictment was announced June 19.
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