Accused GOP lawmaker wanted to take student to hotel

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — A friend of a Tennessee state lawmaker accused of sexual misconduct has been recorded saying the Republican once said he wanted to take a teenage girl to a hotel after "playing around a bit" when he was a high school basketball coach.

In audio provided by one of three women who have accused Rep. David Byrd of sexual misconduct when he was their coach, a man identified as Michael Edwards can be heard saying Byrd told him about the incident when they both coached basketball at Wayne County High School several decades ago.

Christi Rice made the recording earlier this month. Edwards didn't know he was being recorded but later confirmed to a TV station the audio was accurate.

Byrd has not outright denied the allegations but said he's truly sorry if he hurt or emotionally upset any students.

https://www.timesfreepress.com/news/breakingnews/story/2018/oct/26/accused-gop-lawmaker/481876/
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