WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. – Palm Beach County prosecutors who want to examine Rush Limbaugh's (search) medical records for their prescription drug abuse investigation are going to court Monday in hopes of having that evidence released.
The records were seized in late 2003, as prosecutors looked into allegations that the conservative commentator went "doctor shopping" to illegally acquire pain medication. Limbaugh, 54, of Palm Beach, has not been charged with any crime and has denied any criminal wrongdoing.
Limbaugh's attorneys fought the seizures, claiming a violation of privacy rights. But last month the Florida Supreme Court declined to hear his appeal, clearing the way for prosecutors to finally look over the records.
The records are under seal in the possession of Palm Beach Circuit Judge Jeffrey Winikoff (search). A hearing on the issue is scheduled for Monday.
Prosecutors went after Limbaugh's medical records after learning he received about 2,000 painkillers, prescribed by four doctors in six months, at a pharmacy near his oceanfront mansion.
Limbaugh acknowledged his addiction to pain medication in October 2003, blaming it on severe back pain, and took a five-week leave from his radio show to enter rehab.
The Rush Limbaugh Show (search) has 20 million listeners a week and is heard on nearly 600 radio stations.
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