Ex-S.C. official pleads guilty

COLUMBIA, S.C. — Former South Carolina Treasurer Thomas Ravenel, once seen as a rising political star in the Republican Party, pleaded guilty Thursday to a federal charge of possession with intent to distribute cocaine.

Ravenel, 45, admitted during a hearing that he bought cocaine from several people and said he used the drug as often as once a week.

“I’m looking very forward to putting this sad chapter behind me and moving forward,” Ravenel said.

Ravenel resigned a month after his June indictment. He faces up to 20 years in prison and a $1-million fine.