Tiger Woods DUI Case Takes New Turn as Judge Approves Hospital Records Request
Tiger Woods’ legal battle over a March rollover crash has taken a notable turn. Court records reveal that a Martin County judge has granted prosecutors the authority to request medical records from Cleveland Clinic Martin South Hospital, where Woods was taken following the incident. The move is part of the ongoing DUI case against the 50-year-old golf legend and comes amid heightened public scrutiny of his health and driving history.
Background: The March Crash and Arrest
On March 27, 2026, Woods’ SUV rolled over on South Beach Road near his Jupiter Island residence. While no one was injured in the crash, Woods was arrested by Martin County deputies on charges of DUI with property damage and refusal to submit to a DUI test. In addition, he received a careless driving citation, carrying a $163 civil penalty.
Court documents detail that Woods was taken to Martin County Jail but required “medical clearance from the hospital” due to the traffic crash. Woods was transported to the Cleveland Clinic Martin South Hospital but reportedly refused all medical treatment. After being medically discharged, he was returned to the jail.
Hospital Records Subpoena Approved
On June 23, Judge Darren Steele authorized prosecutors to request Woods’ hospital records from March 27. These records could include:
- Statements made by Woods regarding alcohol or chemical substance use
- Drug screen results
- Names of hospital personnel involved in his treatment
A protective order has been issued to ensure sensitive information is limited to prosecutors, law enforcement officers, experts, and the defense.
This step follows an earlier May 12 order by the same judge, approving the release of Woods’ prescription records. Woods’ attorneys and the state have agreed that the records will be handled with confidentiality.
Woods’ Condition During the Investigation
Following the crash, investigators noted several concerning observations:
- Eyes were glassy and bloodshot, pupils “extremely dilated”
- Woods was sweating profusely
- He reported not consuming alcohol but acknowledged taking prescription medications
Court documents indicate that Woods listed his medications as including:
- High blood pressure medication
- Cholesterol medication
- Ibuprofen (for pain, inflammation, or arthritis)
- Vicodin (hydrocodone/acetaminophen)
Investigators reportedly found two hydrocodone pills in his pocket at the time of arrest.
Despite this, Woods’ breath-alcohol tests measured 0.00 twice at the jail. A reading of 0.08 or greater is legally considered intoxicated in Florida.
Woods’ Plea and Treatment Plans
Woods has pleaded not guilty to the DUI charges and requested a jury trial. Court records show that he received approval on April 1 to travel abroad for comprehensive inpatient treatment, part of his ongoing recovery. He has since returned to the U.S.
A status hearing in the case is scheduled for August 4, 2026.
Field Sobriety and Investigative Details
Investigators instructed Woods to participate in field sobriety exercises, including removing his sunglasses to observe his eye movements. Officers concluded:
“Based on my training, I believed that Woods’ normal faculties were impaired, and he was unable to safely operate the motor vehicle.”
These details, combined with medication use, are central to the prosecution’s case.
Public Attention and PGA Tour Implications
The case has drawn significant attention from both media and the golfing community. Woods, a 15-time major champion, had been returning to competitive play, including appearances in the TGL Finals, before stepping away to focus on treatment.
Augusta National Golf Club, home of the Masters, confirmed Woods would not attend the 2026 tournament.
“Although Tiger will not be joining us next week, his presence will be felt here in Augusta,” said Chairman Fred Ridley.
Woods’ absence from the Tour and the ongoing investigation has prompted discussions around player health, safety, and the demands of maintaining a high-profile golf career.
What’s Next
The prosecution’s request for hospital records signals that medical and prescription details may play a pivotal role in the upcoming DUI trial. How these records are interpreted could influence the outcome of Woods’ case, while the golfing world watches closely.
For Woods, balancing his legal obligations, recovery, and public image remains a delicate act. While his playing career continues to hold sway in the public eye, these legal developments underscore the seriousness of the incident and the ongoing investigation.
Key Takeaways:
- Woods arrested March 27, 2026, for DUI after rollover crash; no alcohol detected in breath test
- Medications, including hydrocodone, noted during investigation
- Judge approved hospital records subpoena for prosecutors (June 23)
- Protective order limits who can access records
- Woods pleaded not guilty and requested jury trial; status hearing set for August 4
- PGA Tour and Augusta National acknowledge his absence from events
