TRAVERSE CITY (WWJ) - A Michigan lawmaker charged in an alleged scheme to trade votes for campaign money is now seeking treatment for long term use of prescription painkillers.
An attorney for Rep. Larry Inman, a Traverse City-area Republican, said in a statement Thursday that Inman sought an evaluation and treatment last weekend.
Attorney Christopher Cook said the opioids were prescribed to Inman after "a number of major surgeries" the lawmaker has undergone over the last several years.
"Representative Inman and his physicians will continue to evaluate his ability to efficiently serve his constituency as his treatment progresses," Cook added.
Inman is accused of urging a union to gather campaign contributions from other labor groups to ensure legislators would block a repeal of Michigan's prevailing wage law.
Inman, however, denied any wrongdoing, saying his text messages were misinterpreted, adding: "I have never compromised the integrity of my vote. I have always represented my constituency honestly and legally. I intend on vigorously fighting these charges and defending my reputation."
[View a copy of the indictment]
Inman has been stripped of committee assignments and is facing pressure to resign, but so far has declined to do so.
Republican House Speaker Lee Chatfield said Inman's his office has been taken over by nonpartisan staff as of May 15.
