Roger Stone, one of the most controversial figures in the Russian meddling investigation, will soon visit Sarasota to raise dollars for his legal defense fund. Women for Trump on May 13 will host “An Evening with Roger Stone.” 

The controversial confidante of President Donald Trump faces charges he lied to prosecutors about pursuit of hacked emails and damaging information about Democrat Hillary Clinton during the 2016 presidential election. But a federal judge on Wednesday granted permission to Stone to make a trip to Sarasota.

“A lot of people are interested in controversy,” said Caroline Wetherington, founder of Women for Trump. “He’s a very controversial person, and he’s having a real tough time right now personally.”

Wetherington said several members of her group know Stone, who lives part-time in South Florida and has regularly held speaking engagements there. 

The Stone event will take place at Gold Coast Eagle Distributing in Sarasota. Tickets cost $50, or $75 to attend a VIP Private Reception. Stone will also hold a book signing, and those who buy the high-cost ticket will get a free book. Proceeds support the Roger Stone Defense Fund.

Wetherington said her motive in hosting Stone is to bring an interesting personality to the area.

“I’m not doing this because I think this guy is a wonderful person and we all have to support him,” she said. “He’s an interesting person, and yes a controversial person, and he has a story to tell.

“With what’s going on in costs, I don’t know how much he’s able to tell,” she said.

She did suggest nobody should bring preconceived thoughts about Stone before he speaks.

“I find him an interesting character in the whole saga of everything going on,” Wetherington said. “I don’t think he committed any crimes, but maybe I’m wrong. At this point, I’m being open-minded and ready to hear what he has to say.”