Prosecutors move to subpoena Tiger Woods’ prescription drug records

Prosecutors in Palm Beach County, Florida, have filed a motion to subpoena professional golfer Tiger Woods' prescription drug records as part of their ongoing investigation into his May 29, 2017, arrest for driving under the influence. The legal maneuver, filed on October 30, 2017, seeks to determine whether Woods was under the influence of legally prescribed medications when he was found asleep at the wheel of his Mercedes-Benz SUV, which had minor damage from rolling into a roadside curb. The prosecution's action follows Woods' not guilty plea entered last week and aims to establish the chemical basis for his impaired state during the early morning incident. The case stems from Woods' arrest near his Jupiter Island residence, where police found him unconscious in his vehicle with the engine running. Officers reported detecting the odor of alcohol, though subsequent breathalyzer tests showed no alcohol in his system. Woods later attributed his condition to an "unexpected reaction" to prescription medications, including Vicodin, following his fourth back surgery earlier that year. The subpoena request specifically targets records from all physicians who prescribed medications to Woods in the year preceding the arrest, potentially including pain management specialists involved in his recovery. Legal experts note this development represents a significant escalation in what initially appeared to be a straightforward DUI case. While Florida law allows prosecutors to pursue DUI charges based on impairment from prescription drugs alone, obtaining comprehensive medical records requires demonstrating their direct relevance to the investigation. Woods' defense team has previously indicated they may challenge the subpoena's scope, potentially arguing privacy concerns under HIPAA regulations. The golfer had entered a diversion program for first-time DUI offenders in August, but the case took a new turn with the not guilty plea and subsequent prosecution motions. The outcome could have substantial implications for Woods' personal and professional life, coming during what has been a challenging period marked by multiple surgeries and competitive struggles. Beyond the legal penalties, which could include license suspension and mandatory substance abuse education, the revelation of detailed prescription records might affect sponsorship relationships and public perception. The court is expected to rule on the subpoena request within weeks, determining whether prosecutors can access what could be crucial evidence in establishing whether Woods' impairment resulted from proper medical use or misuse of prescribed substances.