DrugBuyers.Com: Rush Update

Prosecutor: Unseal Limbaugh's Med Records

By JILL BARTON
Associated Press Writer

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (AP) -- Rush Limbaugh's seized medical records are "relevant and necessary" to a prescription drug investigation and should be unsealed, a prosecutor argued in court papers Friday.

The conservative radio commentator has asked the court to keep the records sealed, saying investigators violated his privacy by seizing the records last month and that without them he cannot be treated for his medical conditions.

A judge will hear arguments on the issue next week.

Prosecutors are investigating whether Limbaugh obtained and used prescription painkillers illegally. No charges have been filed.

The records must remain sealed under Florida law unless the state shows a compelling reason to view them.

Prosecutors say the medical records support their allegations that Limbaugh went "doctor-shopping" for prescription painkillers. Search warrants list prescriptions from four doctors from March 24 through Sept. 26.

Limbaugh's attorney, Roy Black, has said the records show Limbaugh had legitimate reasons for taking pain medication. The attorney also said the prosecutor had political motives in pursuing a case against Limbaugh.

Limbaugh surprised listeners to his radio show in October by announcing he was entering drug rehabilitation. His announcement came days after news reports about the criminal investigation surfaced.

Copyright 2003 Associated Press. All rights reserved.