Ravenel speaks as prison sentence looms:
'I just kind of went nuts'
By Schuyler Kropf
The Post and Courier
Former state Treasurer Thomas Ravenel talks about the issues that drove him from public office on the porch of his Edisto Island home Friday.
SLED's questioning of Thomas Ravenel: Transcript
It was bound to happen.
A repetitive self-destructive streak made Thomas Ravenel spoil his life just when things were going good again, he said.
And things were going good for Ravenel, the youthful South Carolina state treasurer whose path appeared to be pointed toward a seat in the U.S. Senate.
He just couldn't help himself.
"It was a combination of self-sabotage and arrogance, plain and simple," Ravenel acknowledged Friday, adding that on the last day that he ever bought cocaine — May 25, 2007 — he knew he was going to get caught and that his world would come crashing down.
"I think what happened to me is that I went through a midlife crisis," he told The Post and Courier in his first sit-down interview since the cocaine scandal broke. "I ... wasn't married, no kids. I just kind of went nuts."
For two hours Friday afternoon, in the tranquil setting of his isolated marsh-front plantation house on Edisto Island, Ravenel, who turns 46 in August, tried to clear up some of the misconceptions about
him and the cocaine scandal that cast him from office.
He wasn't a coke-sniffing "drug-head" who needed drugs to function during his professional rise, he insists, and he wasn't "Scarface," either. "Contrary to public opinion, it's not that addictive," he said. The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, however, would beg to differ, stating on its Web site that cocaine is a powerfully addictive stimulant that directly affects the brain.
Ravenel wants to get back into politics again some day.
"I didn't steal any money, there was no public corruption," he said. "I just hurt myself."
He knows that he did wrong by using drugs while in elected office but says he deserved a break from federal Judge Joe Anderson, instead of the 10 months behind bars and the $250,000 in fines and restitution he got after pleading guilty to conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute cocaine.
"A first-time drug user should not go to prison," said Ravenel, who is scheduled to report to the federal lockup at Jesup, Ga., by May 29.
Why indulge in cocaine at all, especially around Charleston's loose-lipped, bar-hopping party crowd? Maybe it was because life had become too easy, he said. The millionaire developer, who became a darling of the state Republican Party, said the hurdles were becoming less and less difficult to overcome after financial and professional success came so quickly.
How did his cocaine use start? Ravenel admits he dabbled in drugs in his youth and wasn't afraid to smoke a joint if he was offered it at a party or use drugs when he traveled overseas. But today, he insists he was practically drug-free for years until around the time he became treasurer and that the drug became more available through contacts around town.
Getting elected treasurer in 2006 was nice, he said, but Ravenel now says it was a mistake for him to even run. He was pushed into the race by a consultant and his father, longtime Charleston political figure and current school board member Arthur Ravenel Jr., he said.
"My heart and soul was becoming a U.S. senator," he said of his narrow loss in the 2004 GOP primary won by U.S. Sen. Jim DeMint.
Attempts to reach Ravenel's father were unsuccessful and Thomas Ravenel's attorney, Bart Daniel, was out of town and could not be reached for comment.
Ravenel dates the last wave of cocaine use to around 2005, but he says he never used it ahead of a political stump, while in his office or with any other elected official in the state. His habit was mostly recreational, he says, buying sporadically and saving it for party times, although he said the frequency of his use increased.
The government's cocaine case against Ravenel broke in mid-June 2007 when agents confronted him out of the blue. At the time, Ravenel spoke to them without requesting an attorney of what he knew about the drug scene in Charleston.
"Initially, I just thought they wanted to get the drug dealers," he said, adding he was "totally naive" in thinking he wasn't a target. Ravenel was indicted by a federal grand jury June 19 that year, pleaded guilty and was sentenced in March of this year.
Where the state and federal probe of Charleston cocaine use will go remains unclear. Ravenel said Friday he has no idea who other targets might be, but a State Law Enforcement Division report released last week detailing his early interviews listed several King Street bars where Ravenel would buy and use cocaine. The document also described several of the figures Ravenel identified in the Charleston cocaine world.
One user was described as "having financial problems due to excessive attorney fees." Another was a female whom Ravenel knew had "a lack of moral character." Another is "a well-known (name redacted by SLED) who has been featured in numerous magazines and has sold (blank) to people like ..."
Still another "is from a very affluent family with vast property ownership throughout the state." Another subject is identified as "a pharmaceutical salesman who Ravenel believes has a drinking problem."
In the report, Ravenel also said cocaine use is so widespread in the Holy City that it was shared "like a football ... back and forth."
"And God knows where these people get their stuff from," Ravenel said at one point in the interview. "I mean it's everywhere." The comments were contained in documents released under the S.C. Freedom of Information Act.
Ravenel said that he began running with the drug crowd because they were young but now admits he used bad judgment in letting some of them into his home, including his drug supplier and co-defendant Michael L. "Hashmere" Miller of Mount Pleasant.
"I was too busy having this liberal mentality, you know, 'I'm friends with everybody,' " he said. "Where did that get me?"
With his prison reporting date less than two weeks away, Ravenel is preparing in various ways for a life behind bars. He's reading Watergate figure Chuck Colson's book "Born Again," about his time in prison, and "George and Laura," about President Bush's turn toward a life of sobriety at age 40.
He's also lifting weights and talking to other white-collar criminals about how they survived, including Charles D. "Pug" Ravenel, a distant cousin and former Democratic candidate for governor who eventually was pardoned after pleading guilty to conspiracy to commit bank fraud; Kevin Geddings, a former aide to S.C. Gov. Jim Hodges who went to prison over a North Carolina lottery scandal; and former North Charleston lawmaker Danny Winstead, who was convicted of accepting bribes in Operation Lost Trust, the FBI's 1990 sting of the S.C. Legislature.
U.S. Sen. Lindsey Graham, Gov. Mark Sanford and Lt. Gov. Andre Bauer also have called with words of encouragement, he said.
Ravenel remains angry that he has to go to prison at all. If the case had been pursued in state court rather than at the federal level, he and his legal team contend he probably would have gotten a slap on the wrist and no incarceration time at all. He also insists he cooperated fully at every turn.
"You can fight the state, but you can't fight the feds," he said of the court systems, adding, "that doesn't excuse what I did as state treasurer."
While in prison, Ravenel said he will seek out "the worst job they have" so it doesn't look like he's getting special treatment. But he would like to teach a class if offered; Ravenel has an MBA from the University of South Carolina.
"I've kind of resigned myself that I'm not going to get any breaks," he said, though he also termed the prison sentence the judge gave him as potentially "a gift" aimed toward turning his life around.
Reach Schuyler Kropf at skropf@postandcourier.com or 937-5551.
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TheCat_inTheHat (anonymous) says...
He should've never let that ol' Michael Miller in his house, he's right. That boy is to blame for all of his problems. DARN YOU MILLER, DARRRRRNN YOUUUUUU!
May 18, 2008 at 12:47 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
KidYendor (anonymous) says...
We need to legalize the purchase of a gram and a half of coke per person each week on Fridays at local pharmacies. I think they keep coke illegal just so people can turn each other in, promote blackmail, make money for lawyers, make money for government agencies, etc. You know the story. Good luck Thomas and best wishes.
May 18, 2008 at 1:12 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
CedarPosts (anonymous) says...
All I can say is wow!
I didn't now it snowed so much in Charleston and all year round at that!
A must read for anyone going to Camp FED: "Who Moved My Soap" More and the Ravenel Poll at www.cedarposts.blogspot.com
May 18, 2008 at 1:20 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
chuck_ski (anonymous) says...
No mention of Cordell in this article. What's he up to now? I thought we were going to get some juicy details here...What's holding you back P&C editors?
May 18, 2008 at 1:22 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
TheCat_inTheHat (anonymous) says...
Kid yendor, I was thinking the same thing, lol. They want us to be our own worst enemies by keeping these drugs banned.
chuck ski-
Whats cordell got to do with anything? If he was involved he'd be right in the same boat. This article isn't about Cordell, so that might be one reason theres no mention of him. Just like theres no mention of Pasquale, who is involved in this case, haha, but your asking about Cordell. ?????
May 18, 2008 at 1:35 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
chuck_ski (anonymous) says...
Cordell brought the house of cards down
May 18, 2008 at 2:20 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
TheCat_inTheHat (anonymous) says...
I say his Co-defendant, and the informant. But I'm only guessing.
May 18, 2008 at 2:30 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
BillMan (anonymous) says...
Remember,
Miller, SumDJIam to us, was set up by an undercover SLED agent in early 2006 with 6 or 8 undercover drug buys! They let Miller continue to deal all over town without charging him until it led them to Ravenel! Cordell?, i guess this is a friend of Ravenel's, was not even a factor in this, if you read the transcripts they followed Miller To Ravenel's house on May 25 and witnessed the drug purchase and then brought Miller in and used his cooperation to indict Ravenel! Ravenel was then brought in and admitted everything, it seems pretty east to understand to me! Go back and read the story from the beginning! Case closed!
May 18, 2008 at 2:33 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
BillMan (anonymous) says...
If you read the transcripts Ravenel pleaded guilty from day 1 while questioned by Agent O'Neal before even being charged! Seems Ravenel, not Miller was the one who did Ravenel in! And who is he kidding about running for office again? He would be lucky to get 30% of the vote for Meggett Town Council being a convicted felon! Is this a joke or is this guy serious or does he thing were stupid?
May 18, 2008 at 2:47 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
ballachulish (anonymous) says...
Typical Republican, no personal responsibility, it's always someone else's fault.
May 18, 2008 at 2:49 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
TheCat_inTheHat (anonymous) says...
Lifestyles, of the rich and famous, they're always complaining, always complaaaaiiinning.................
May 18, 2008 at 3:03 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
goodkarmasc (anonymous) says...
He should be ashamed. Ashamed of the embarassment to our state, the office he held, and the republican party.
Sad part is that "Uncle Arthur" was complicit in allowing him to run for office. He even stated they suspected "problems" as he ran for office. But the drunken arrogance obviously spans multi-generations in that family.
It's also sad that we have to drive over a stately bridge named after a disgraced family.
May 18, 2008 at 5:56 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
BillytheKid (anonymous) says...
South Carolina is full of a bunch of arrogant pricks! He had over 400 grams of coke . He had that reduced to under 100 grams because his lawyers argued that is was not "pure" coke and if it was it would be less than a 100 grams. Then, the Treasure of South Carolina, or used to be, use his powers to get only 10 months in a puff prison and have the balls, supplied by this rag, to suggest that he wants to be elected to some sort of office in South Carolina.
May 18, 2008 at 6:11 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
ChrisPia (anonymous) says...
Ravenel remains angry that he has to go to prison at all. If the case had been pursued in state court rather than at the federal level, he and his legal team contend he probably would have gotten a slap on the wrist and no incarceration time at all. He also insists he cooperated fully at every turn.
"You can fight the state, but you can't fight the feds," he said of the court systems, adding, "that doesn't excuse what I did as state treasurer."
He wasn't a coke-sniffing "drug-head" who needed drugs to function during his professional rise, he insists, and he wasn't "Scarface," either. "Contrary to public opinion, it's not that addictive," he said. The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, however, would beg to differ, stating on its Web site that cocaine is a powerfully addictive stimulant that directly affects the brain.
He knows that he did wrong by using drugs while in elected office but says he deserved a break from federal Judge Joe Anderson, instead of the 10 months behind bars and the $250,000 in fines and restitution he got after pleading guilty to conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute cocaine.
"A first-time drug user should not go to prison," said Ravenel, who is scheduled to report to the federal lockup at Jesup, Ga., by May 29.
***Federal Government is Your Checks and Balances when Politicians break the Law.
May 18, 2008 at 6:44 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
dbrace (anonymous) says...
That is why they call it "dope". Do your time and then on with your life such as it may be. You have ruined your good name and tarnished your family's name forever.
May 18, 2008 at 7:45 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Slappa (anonymous) says...
What a narcisistic pig ! I thought the F+B people were the ones indulging after work not the guy in charge of the states monies ! He is right that weed and coke aren't as addictive as people think but when combined with a addictive personality and serious behavioral problems and a couple mil in the bank, you get this result...jail.
May 18, 2008 at 7:47 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
watchdog (anonymous) says...
"I was too busy having this liberal mentality, you know, 'I'm friends with everybody,' " he said. "Where did that get me?"
What does that mean, you are just candy coating your problem.
I hope they ream your ass out. I will also remind you every time I see you in public, how much of an arrogant prick you are.
May 18, 2008 at 7:52 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
watchdog (anonymous) says...
Criminal.....................
All the Ravenel's are bums....
May 18, 2008 at 7:53 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Tulane75 (anonymous) says...
Of all the comments, the libel against Arthur Ravenel puzzles me most.
At first, I believed it was someone just trying to stir the pot to get a reaction. But that wouldn't make sense, because the poster does the same thing everyday and on some days more than once. thomas1776's comments are always mean and cruel and most often contain false assertions. There are probably differences of opinion concerning whether the "mean and cruel" comments should be made, but for the purpose of this post, they are permitted, good taste aside. I am not discussing 1st Amendment rights here, just methods of communication.
If you are trying to persuade, then writing your message in a courteous, forceful and accurate manner would certainly promote your point more efficiently. You may actually win people over, as people seem more inclined to listen when not being personally attacked or offended.
If your purpose is to hurt or offend, then baseless assertions, intolerance of Due Process, personal attacks and use of borderline language will take you where you want to be.
May 18, 2008 at 8:09 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
skeeter (anonymous) says...
I've lost a few good friends as in dead because of cocaine addiction. I quit in 1987 but I still have to go to a 12 step program if I want to remain free of that drug. Non-Addictive my butt! Denial Thomas. Other than that I'm done with following this story. It's over now.
May 18, 2008 at 8:28 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Larz13 (anonymous) says...
Holding up fist with thumb and index finger exteneded.
May 18, 2008 at 8:30 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
FBITiger (anonymous) says...
Ravenel should be thankful he only received 10 months. Federal sentencing guidelines say he should have received 21 to 27 months and that includes Ravenel accepting responsibility. From the article it does not sound like he has fully accepted responsiblilty.
May 18, 2008 at 8:42 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
DOODGUY (anonymous) says...
What a waste of tax dollars to put a non violent offender behind bars. It is my body and I have the right to do with it what I please. Imagine all the money wasted on the pathetic "war on drugs". Legalize it and the criminal activity surrounding it will disappear. Now I do not support drug use, and I think tax money could be better spent with treatment and not incarceration. Who has the right to tell me what I can and can't do to my own body.
May 18, 2008 at 9:01 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
whalernut (anonymous) says...
You all listen Thomas has ratted out some very important people. He would be wise to disappear!
Shut up Thomas you are going to get yorself killed.
And you are not helping yourself at all. How much did the paper pay you for this horrible article anyway?
May 18, 2008 at 9:21 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
JohnS (anonymous) says...
It was just powder cocaine not crack. He didn't kill anybody. He should have got house arrest for three months. They made an example out of him.
May 18, 2008 at 9:37 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
princessmango (anonymous) says...
How absurd can this guy get? Once convicted of a felony, he can NEVER run for office again, not even as dog-catcher. He is arrogant, conceited, and not in touch with the real world. Sounds like a true Ravenel to me! It's everybody's fault but his. Give me a break. Grow up, dude. Use some of your money to get counseling on how to be a productive member of society,not a whining, complaining, DRUG ADDICT!!!!! You are pond scum and have brought disgrace nationally to our great state. How dare you!!!!!
In my opinion, your 10 months' jail time is waaaay too short. Were you not who you were, you would be in jail for years. Hopefully when you get out of jail you will just disappear into woodwork and we won't have to deal with your kind again.
May 18, 2008 at 9:50 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
oldglory (anonymous) says...
skeeter, good post--direct.
Thomas Ravenel, how in the world were you released from rehab? You are in complete denial. The signs are all there. Just read these comments if you cannot look and see yourself. Heed what people are saying and know the truth. Remember, truth hurts.
May 18, 2008 at 10:19 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
bankz (anonymous) says...
To be honest i wish he would of gotten more time, there are a lot of people out there that has gotten more time for less. He needs to be greatful for the time he did get and serve it honorably and respectfully and come out and start fresh.
May 18, 2008 at 10:22 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Reader (anonymous) says...
I doubt he would ever win, but this post by PrincessMango is incorrect: "How absurd can this guy get? Once convicted of a felony, he can NEVER run for office again, not even as dog-catcher." There are tons of offices he could run for including dogcatcher and president of the United States with a felony conviction.
May 18, 2008 at 10:25 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Threatt (anonymous) says...
Uh, look to the past to see the future. Remember when outgoing President Bill Clinton pardoned Richard Riley, Jr, son of former SC Governor Riley, of his felony cocaine charges? The deal has already been made. Outgoing President George "sniff sniff" Bush will pardon Thomas Ravenel of his felony coke charges early next year. Bank it. T-Rav will be back.
May 18, 2008 at 10:30 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
martin (anonymous) says...
Encouragement from Sanford? Mr. Straight Arrow?
Confirms my suspicions that former US Attorney Reggie Lloyd was rewarded with being made the historic, first black SLED chief by letting the Italian flee the country. He probably would have really turned some people, friends of Mark's kind of people.
It's obvious Ravenel has, like the judge said, provided virtually nothing. And, I agree, he got noting out of rehab.
May 18, 2008 at 10:45 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
anon123 (anonymous) says...
I did not initially have much sympathy for Ravenel (and he comes across as pretty arrogant)....but...
From reading the SLED transcript, it looks like the 400 grams they charged him with purchasing are the **cumulative** purchases of 1 gram over the course of several years. That's unfair - it should be 400 counts of purchase of 1 gram.
And... there is not really any good evidence for those charges, other than Ravenel's confession itself, which was obtained under false pretenses (they told him they were going after the dealers, not users).
All of this underscores an important lesson in today's police state: never admit anything to law enforcement officers before first talking with a lawyer.
May 18, 2008 at 10:53 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
SCgal (anonymous) says...
U.S. Sen. Lindsey Graham, Gov. Mark Sanford and Lt. Gov. Andre Bauer also have called with words of encouragement, he said.
Wonder what their words of encouragement were for someone being sent to prison for 10 months for drug use?
May 18, 2008 at 11:05 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
TheCat_inTheHat (anonymous) says...
Posted by whalernut on May 18, 2008 at 9:21 a.m. (Suggest removal)
You all listen Thomas has ratted out some very important people. He would be wise to disappear!
Shut up Thomas you are going to get yorself killed.
And you are not helping yourself at all. How much did the paper pay you for this horrible article anyway?
I'M LISTENING.....AND LISTENING...AND LISTENING.... HEY!!! NOBODY'S BEEN INDICTED???? WHAT GIVES. YOU SAID THOMAS RATTED OUT SOME VERY IMPORTANT PEOPLE. THEY MUST BE ABOVE THE LAW, CAUSE IN ALL THIS TIME THE LAW HAS DONE NOTHING TO THEM, AND THE VERY IMPORTANT PEOPLE HAVE'NT TOUCHED RAVENEL. HMMM, MAYBE THEY CAN'T FIND HIM, ONLY THE NEWS REPORTERS.
May 18, 2008 at 11:11 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
chuck_ski (anonymous) says...
I wonder what King Street bars were outed as coke dens in the SLED report...? Anybody seen that thing?
Torch
Raval
Chai's
Trio Club
May 18, 2008 at 12:29 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
tallblonde (anonymous) says...
"A first-time drug user should not go to prison," said Ravenel,
Did he mean first time user? or first time caught?
May 18, 2008 at 12:44 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
chuck_ski (anonymous) says...
Anybody hear the rumor that the feds sent a narc to one of T Ravs parties with a hidden video camera and they got video of the who's who of Charleston doing blow. Maybe a local news organization can get a FOI request for that video and post this online.
May 18, 2008 at 12:55 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
TheCat_inTheHat (anonymous) says...
Yeah, they also got a video of Elvis and and "XORKX" the alien playing poker with Bin Laden.
May 18, 2008 at 1:32 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
BillMan (anonymous) says...
Think if they had video of all these people they would have been charged after a year? Arn't there worse crimes in the news to be worried about?
May 18, 2008 at 1:45 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
LL5 (anonymous) says...
Why has the P&C not published the link to the SLED/FBI transcripts????? The State did on Friday and they are quite interesting. The story did not touch our paper until today, when this self-serving article appeared. It makes me want to cancel my subscription. A mid-life crisis? He admits doing drugs since the 80s. That's a pretty long crisis. Should serve no time? A first time offender who dabbles once or twice is one thing, but the judge accepted testimony that he had upwards of 30 coke parties at his house. There have been reports that known drug dealers were at campaign events (Greenville paper). The judge would not take a further downward departure because there was no concrete proof that he had shared any information of value for the ongoing investigation. He was offered a stay on going to prison to continue to help law enforcement with his "important" information, but decided to go ahead. Not addictive? Give me a break. You want us all to believe that the great T-Rav is immune to coke? Then why did it escalate? Oh, yeah, it was the "bad crowd" who made you do it. You were trying to be "liberal" by allowing an African-American in your house? Just save the crap. The P&C should be ashamed that they let this pious, arrogant article run. T-Rav has learned no lesson...his arrogance in the face of the facts is astounding.
May 18, 2008 at 2:01 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
mershadonn (anonymous) says...
BAHBAHAHAHAHAHAHBAHAHAHAHAHABHA
Not this year DUDE
I was going to write a big response to your Article but obviously you do not care so it does not matter...
With all the foreclosures , job losses
and crashing and burning this state has going on we need a strong leadership , not a person that wont even admit that he has addiction issues
and that is That ....
May 18, 2008 at 2:07 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
chuck_ski (anonymous) says...
Rumor has it there is an undercover video out there that would expose quite a few well known and properly placed people. I think it would be great if another local Charleston media outlet ran with this. I think the P&C has reason to avoid this.
May 18, 2008 at 2:08 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
draftdot (anonymous) says...
"You can fight the state, but you can't fight the feds," he said of the court systems, adding, "that doesn't excuse what I did as state treasurer."
P&C please check into this claim. I've heard the state of SC has 'mandatory' drug sentencing-while the fed sentencing is more subjective (???).
May 18, 2008 at 2:21 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
TheCat_inTheHat (anonymous) says...
Posted by chuck_ski on May 18, 2008 at 2:08 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Rumor has it there is an undercover video out there that would expose quite a few well known and properly placed people. I think it would be great if another local Charleston media outlet ran with this. I think the P&C has reason to avoid this.
RUMOR ALSO HAS IT THAT BIN LADEN AND ELVIS JUST GOT CAUGHT ON TAPE HUNTING BIG FOOT. AFTER THEY CAUGHT BIG FOOT THEY CHOPPED UP THE BODY AND FED IT TO THE LOCH NESS MONSTER. THE LOCHNESS MONSTER THEN WENT TO SEA WORLD TO FILL OUT A JOB APPLICATION...
May 18, 2008 at 3:31 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
TheCat_inTheHat (anonymous) says...
THIS WAS ALL RECORDED USING THE SAME PERSON AND VIDEO EQUIPMENT THAT WAS RUMORED TO BE USED AT RAVENELS HOUSE.
May 18, 2008 at 3:32 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
SecondChance (anonymous) says...
I understand having disapproval and disappointment from someone who was representing our State. However, most of these comments are Very harsh! Come on, how can you feel good about casting the first stone?? Passing SUCH judgement. Have you ever been through a trying time in your life and have everyone judge you so harshly? I have and it changes the way you view life. Has anyone considered that maybe this will change his life for the better and in return he just may make a difference in another persons life? Have a little faith people!
May 18, 2008 at 3:44 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
telitlikeitis (anonymous) says...
DONT DROP THE SOAP!!!!!!YOU SHOULD HAVE GOT MORE TIME THAN 10 MONTHS FOR THE AMOUNT OF DOPE YOU HAD. THEY SEND THESE OTHER DOPE DEALERS TO PRISON FOR 25YEARS TO LIFE FOR THAT AMOUNT OF DOPE YOU HAD .WASIT BY A SCHOOL OR CHURH IF SO THAT SHOULD BE MORE CHARGES.YOU WALKIN AWAY BASICALLY-WHO ARRANGES THE DATE TO GO TO PRISON ,YOU SHOULD HAVE WENT THE DAY YOU GOT SENTENCED!!!!!! DONT WORRY YOU WONT HAVE A HARD PRISON TIME FIRST ITS FED TIME SO ITS NOT THAT SERIOUS ,MAN UP !!!!YOU ARE A DRUG DEALER NO MATTER HOW YOU LOOK AT !!!!!!!
May 18, 2008 at 3:52 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
studley (anonymous) says...
Guys and Gals:
I read the P&C story and cried - poor Tommy Pooh! The boy is out of touch with reality.
Tallblonde: You echoed setiments I posted several months ago.
Thomas: You are an arrogant moron. You should go to jail - you are not a first time user you are a first time prosecuted.
Let me repeat myself: I am an engineer by education (with an MBA and a MS in Computer Science) but not a mathematician. However, I am sufficient enough of a matematician that I can count pass one (1).
Poor Tommy - you bought more than once, you used more than once, you distributed more than once. Each is separate criminal offense. You should have been charged with multiple crimes.
You may not have stolen any money but you did much worse - you violated the public trust. You are scum de scum.
May 18, 2008 at 5:22 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
TheCat_inTheHat (anonymous) says...
Posted by telitlikeitis on May 18, 2008 at 3:52 p.m. (Suggest removal)
DONT DROP THE SOAP!!!!!!YOU SHOULD HAVE GOT MORE TIME THAN 10 MONTHS FOR THE AMOUNT OF DOPE YOU HAD. THEY SEND THESE OTHER DOPE DEALERS TO PRISON FOR 25YEARS TO LIFE FOR THAT AMOUNT OF DOPE YOU HAD .WASIT BY A SCHOOL OR CHURH IF SO THAT SHOULD BE MORE CHARGES.YOU WALKIN AWAY BASICALLY-WHO ARRANGES THE DATE TO GO TO PRISON ,YOU SHOULD HAVE WENT THE DAY YOU GOT SENTENCED!!!!!!
Enlighten me please, with the article that stated Ravenel had tons of drugs in his posession and got busted. All I'm seeing is articles for a conspiracy, not possession....
May 18, 2008 at 5:28 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
dreamer (anonymous) says...
but then again, he's just so darn cute! :)
May 18, 2008 at 5:31 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
CedarPosts (anonymous) says...
Seems like the general feeling is that folks commenting here don't like crack heads and really don't like them in public office.
May 18, 2008 at 5:37 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
travlagnt2 (anonymous) says...
Well it seems a lot of you have comments about someone with whom I wonder even know the man. I mean know him. Well I do. I have for over 30 years. He was akin to being a third brother at my home many times over. So he made a mistake. All who havent please stand up and let me see the nail holes in your hands. The Thomas I know and the one whom I am sure is is a caring, hardworking and intelligent person. I am sure there are lots of you that think his father gave him his breaks and fortune. He didnt. Thomas was given three choices for college which his father did agree to pay for. The Citadel, the Citadel, and the Citadel. His MBA was paid for himself and all his money was made and lost by himself. So dont any of you sit in your comfy chairs and make comments of someone you dont know. Did he commit a crime? Absolutely. Is he going to pay for that crime? Certainly. But to write of what his family did or did not do for him doesnt matter. And as far as future political endeavors. Run for any office you want my friend. You will always have my vote. At least I know what I am getting. Someone that made a mistake, paid for it, learned from it and moved on with his life. How many of you still are still reliving your mistakes??
May 18, 2008 at 5:46 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
BreezinIAm (anonymous) says...
Why do I get the feeling that the Parrr-Taaaay! is just starting? And he's going to seek out "the worst job they have" ... hmmm, shagging golf balls? Or is Jesup not a Club Fed? Wondering.
"The Federal Correctional Institution (FCI) in Jesup (GA) is a medium security facility housing male offenders. It has two adjacent satellite facilities: a low security facility and a minimum security prison camp, both housing male inmates."
May 18, 2008 at 6:59 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
TheCat_inTheHat (anonymous) says...
Posted by stand828 on May 18, 2008 at 6:12 p.m.
Ravenel is a millionaire who was born with a silver spoon in his mouth (or nose, as the case may be)....
OHH, SOOO LAAAMMMEEE (BUZZER SOUND) TRY AGAIN. THAT'S ABOUT AS FUNNY AS THE JOKE ABOUT THE LINES ON THE BRIDGE BEING NAMED AFTER HIM. WTF DOES A SILVER SPOON IN THE NOSE HAVE TO DO WITH COCAINE USE?? THATS LIKE TAKING AN OLD SAYING LIKE...."IF YOU CAN'T BEAT EM, JOIN EM" THEN YOU COMING IN AND TRYING TO BE FUNNY BY SAYING "IF YOU CANT BEAT EM JOIN EM (OR GO BIKE RIDING, AS THE CASE MAY BE)
Oh, and this is a perfect example of the different set of rules those in the corrupt "good ol' boy" system have. How else could Thomas' old coot of a daddy, the allegedly respectable and much beloved hick "Cousin Arthur," learn about this secret investigation and warn his son about it?
SO WHAT IF HIS DAD KNEW? HOW IS THAT A PERFECT EXAMPLE OF A DIFF. SET OF RULES. THE MAN STILL GOT INDICTED. ITS NOT LIKE HIS DAD KNEW, AND TOLD THEM TO CALL THE INVESTIGATION OFF, AND THAT HE WILL GO TAKE THOMAS OUT FOR ICE CREAM AND TALK ABOUT HIS PROBLEM AND GET HIM TO QUIT OR ELSE HE WON'T GET BY THE NEXT TIME.
May 18, 2008 at 7:04 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
TheCat_inTheHat (anonymous) says...
Posted by BreezinIAm on May 18, 2008 at 6:59 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Why do I get the feeling that the Parrr-Taaaay! is just starting? And he's going to seek out "the worst job they have" ... hmmm, shagging golf balls? Or is Jesup not a Club Fed? Wondering.
YOUR WATCHING TOO MUCH T.V. LADY...THERE IS NO SUCH THING AS A CLUB FED, OR POSH FEDERAL PRISON, AND HASNT BEEN ANYTHING CLOSE TO THE LIKES SINCE THE ERADICATION OF THE MAFIA. WHO BACK IN THE DAY RAN THE PRISONS AND PAID TO HAVE OUTSIDE MEALS AND THINGS OF THAT NATURE. THEY BASICALLY RAN THE JAIL SYSTEM. THERE ARE NO GOLF COURSES OR BOWLING ALLEYS FOR ANYBODY IN PRISON, FED OR STATE, OR MILITARY.
May 18, 2008 at 7:11 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Reader (anonymous) says...
Thomas1776 wrote, "How many names does Reader post under now? Five? The syntax never changes for him."
Do you mean exceptional grammar, spelling, and punctuation? Actually, Reader is my only nom de plume. I don't know what you are talking about.
On the upside, this is the first Thomas1776 posting that has not included an erroneous statement about the legal system and the laws!
May 18, 2008 at 7:43 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
BillMan (anonymous) says...
Ravenel is correct, in the state system and federal system for that matter a first time drug offender of his sort would most likely not receive jail time! The ONLY reason Ravenel recieved prison time was because he was a state wide constitutional office holder and thus held to a higher standard than average joe! Why do you think the drug dealer who delt to hundreds of people would receive the same sentence but not for Ravenel's position in office? But Ravenel is to blame here, if you are having coke parties while holding such a high office you deserve some type of jail time! That is the difference and Ravenel knows this!
May 18, 2008 at 7:56 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
brickcat (anonymous) says...
It is better to remain silent and be thought a fool, than to open your mouth and remove all doubt . -- George Eliot ...
Good luck on your future endeavors.
May 18, 2008 at 8:08 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
elcid81 (anonymous) says...
I have no pity on him or any other government official CAUGHT using drugs. I as a military member, collect a government check and I am prone to be tested at any given moment. At any point, if I or any other of my fellow soldiers come up hot, then we loose our job and careers.
I wish elected officials and anyone (welfare) receiving a government check could be held to the same standards. How much money could the government save? It's probably why I'm not in politics.
Remember Memorial day. God Bless our troops, veterans and our families. From a career soldier wanting to return home soon.
May 18, 2008 at 8:26 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
BreezinIAm (anonymous) says...
TheCat, fair enough: "No Club Feds anymore." So the inmates no longer run the asylums? Anyway, he'll be an employee of Federal Prison Industries Inc. (Jusup, GA) with an opportunity to make jumpsuits, womens' jumper dresses, and even vests and body armor among a lot of other things.
Best case? He'll come out of prison inspired to rejuvenate South Carolina's lagging textile industry.
Worst case? He'll be forced to sing the University of Georgia's fight song while bending over in the shower.
May 18, 2008 at 8:30 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
jeg111 (anonymous) says...
Maybe Thomas will grow up in prison. Can't believe he his as old as he is and blames others for his actions. Guess what Thomas, no one can force you to do anything you DON"T want to do. Did Daddy push that cocaine up your nose? The biggest winners, from your poor judgement, are the people of South Carolina. Thank God they caught you before you did the State in just as you have done your family in. By the way, I voted for you. Shows that we all have poor judgement at one time or another.
May 18, 2008 at 8:41 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
TheCat_inTheHat (anonymous) says...
How come there's only one dealer in this mess when he says he's had other dealers? Just because the others didnt get picked up on state charges doesnt mean they cant get a federal indictment.
May 18, 2008 at 9 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
mershadonn (anonymous) says...
Ok lets try again ,
Mr Ravenel :
you was elected as a public servent
you are supposed to be held to a higher standard ,
not associating with criminals known or unknown to the police..
400 G's is some sweet weight !
lets see a G is what 100$ so we are talking about
4o Thousand Dollars street? And that $ came from where ?
ALSO I guess you didnt learn anything when you ran into DETOX when you got caught.....
And please writers cut out the sanctimonious crap about what a good guy,family friend and forgive bla bla bla !
He was maybe using in your bathroom at your family events, and not sharing either!
Mr Ravinel,you are now convicted and that is that..
I will bet your lawyer told you :
nooooooo do not do this interview nooooo and ran for the hills so he would not be blamed for this one ! OR he told you to see about where the Peoples mindset was so you can run for office again, Marion Berry in Washington DC did it for years, so why cant you ? Please dont run again, the South Carolina People need better support then what you will ever be able to give them,We need STRONG LEADERSHIP FOR THE HARD TIMES AHEAD.. those back room coke partys will only go so far ...
May 18, 2008 at 11:43 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
chuck_ski (anonymous) says...
The SC GOP was touting this guy as a replacement for Senator Lindsay Graham days before he was indicted. Shows how out of touch they are. Considering how T Rav describes how prevalent Coke is in Chuck town maybe King Joe and the Chamber should capitalize on this as a selling point. I can see the ad campaign now "It may be Hot down here in Charleston but the snow is always falling"
May 18, 2008 at 11:51 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
charlestonnative1963 (anonymous) says...
come on Mr Ravenel, Take it like a man...litterally!
Don't blame it on anyone or anythng...most kids that get a spanking are just sorry they got caught...You are about to get that spanking so take it like a man and ...oh that advise about the soap...thats importnat.
May 18, 2008 at 11:59 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
lillycollette (anonymous) says...
I hear ya elcid81:
"Remember Memorial day. God Bless our troops, veterans and our families. From a career soldier wanting to return home soon."
May 19, 2008 at 4:34 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
CHRISJIII (anonymous) says...
What a whiny jerk!!!! Yeah blame everyone else for your crimes. Of course he knew that he was going to be busted, because his father had already been informed by someone in SLED.He has no remorse whatsoever for what has happened, just regret for being caught.
May 19, 2008 at 12:22 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
easyridr (anonymous) says...
As I read this~I think Huh! Please, People make mistakes! Some get caught and some don't. The Ravenel family are wonderful people. Arthur Ravenel has done so much for the Charleston area, its a shame there are so many idiots in this area. So many of these comments are BS!!!How many of these negative people have never gotten caught up in something and later regreted it..Maybe one 1 or 2 at least! I'M SURE.
May 19, 2008 at 1:03 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Girleygirl (anonymous) says...
It's sad that he does not realize he was his worst enemy during his "mid-life crisis."
May 19, 2008 at 1:56 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
CNN_10 (anonymous) says...
Thomas 1776 your getting the feds on reader oh boy. As for Ravenel what mid-life crisis he is full of s--- he has been getting high since he went to St Andrews High School and The Citadel.
May 19, 2008 at 6:56 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
cnstreet (anonymous) says...
"Posted by TP on May 18, 2008 at 4:29 p.m.:
Nice negative use of 'liberal' to describe the perils of the party lifestyle. What a blatantly calculated Republican weasel move. You're right, Thomas. The Democrats made you do it.
So typical. I hope he gets butt raped by a bunch of big black dudes."
Wow, this board is a cesspool of misery and ignorance. I can't believe that people are so hateful that they would wish rape upon someone who is going to prison for a non-violent crime.
May 19, 2008 at 7:07 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
bootlicked (anonymous) says...
He'll be as easy as a marsh tacky to break in. Just a little while spent around him and he'll be ready to ride. I knew he was a druggie when he wrote the editorial in support of Rusty Thomas. You got caught, set-up, or whatever. Just shut up and take it like a man. Those downing the republicans only need to look no further than the "honorable" Joe Riley or should I say the dishonorable Riley for a democratic example. Screw the good ol' boys they are going to get what they deserve. It's not addictive? Come on man, I think that you are like your idol RT . Keep your mouth shut so you don't sound like your daddy wasted his money on your Citadel ring. I believe you when you speak of having friends with low morales(RT). Your mid-life crisis started when you were 20 ?
May 19, 2008 at 9:18 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
whalernut (anonymous) says...
Hey Cat in a hat. You should think past your narrow mind.
He ran his mouth and he will get whats coming. DRIVE BY!
That guy is doomed and I dont mean like getting shot I mean like nobody will ever trust him again. Wake up CAT IN A HAT.
GET REAL!
May 20, 2008 at 5:54 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
TheCat_inTheHat (anonymous) says...
too many gangster movies, kid.
May 21, 2008 at 4:35 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
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