Attorneys for Tiger Woods challenging subpoena for pharmacy records amid DUI case

Tiger Woods is challenging prosecutors’ efforts to obtain his pharmacy records as part of his ongoing DUI case, arguing that the request violates his right to privacy. Woods has pleaded not guilty to charges including misdemeanor DUI, refusal to submit to a lawful test, and distracted driving. A status hearing in the case is scheduled for May 5 in Stuart, Fla.

Authorities began pursuing the records following a March 27 rollover crash near Woods’ home in Florida. Officers at the scene described him as “lethargic” and noted signs of impairment, including bloodshot eyes and unsteady movement. Two hydrocodone pills were reportedly found in his possession. Woods later told deputies he had taken prescription medication earlier that day.

Prosecutors are asking for extensive documentation, including prescription types, refill schedules, and instructions provided with the medications. Duncan has pushed back, emphasizing that any release of such sensitive information should be tightly controlled. If the court permits access, he is requesting a protective order limiting who can view the records and preventing public disclosure. “The records shall not be disclosed to any third parties, including Order prohibiting dissemination of the records by the State in response to any public records request,” he stated, adding that any future public release should require additional court approval.

In court filings, Woods’ attorney, Douglas Duncan, objected to the state’s attempt to subpoena detailed prescription information from a Florida pharmacy. Prosecutors are seeking records from Jan. 1 through March 27, including how often prescriptions were filled, dosage levels, pill counts, and any warnings—particularly those related to driving while medicated.

Duncan argued that such records are protected under constitutional privacy rights and should not be released without first proving their relevance to the case. “This right is admittedly not absolute should the State show the relevance of the records to its criminal investigation and thus warrant intrusion into Mr. Woods’ privacy,” he wrote, requesting a hearing before any decision is made.

Following the incident, Woods stepped away from professional golf to focus on his health and entered a treatment program overseas after receiving court approval to travel. He also withdrew from upcoming commitments, including a planned Masters appearance and consideration for a future Ryder Cup captaincy.

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