UPDATE: R.C. Soles upgraded to serious condition after heart surgery

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — Former Sen. R.C. Soles is recovering after undergoing heart bypass surgery this morning at New Hanover Regional Medical Center.

Hospital officials confirm Soles was upgraded from critical to serious condition tonight.

Soles, the longest serving member of the General Assembly in state history, left office in 2011.

For years, the former senator has been in the spotlight after allegations of sexual misconduct and assault involving several young men.

His contentious relationships with the men have led to their arrests, many court proceedings and jail time.