Ex-Angels Official Admits Searching Desk for Drugs Amid Trial

UPDATE: A shocking revelation unfolded in court today as Tim Mead, the former head of communications for the Los Angeles Angels, testified he searched the desk of former employee Eric Kay three times for drugs. This admission comes during the ongoing wrongful death civil suit brought by the family of late pitcher Tyler Skaggs, who tragically died from an overdose in 2019.

The testimony, which began earlier today in Santa Ana, California, revealed that Mead was looking for potential illicit substances amid concerns over Kay’s drug use. Kay, who previously received a 22-year prison sentence for his role in providing Skaggs with a fentanyl-laced pill, has been at the center of this high-profile case. The Skaggs family is seeking $118 million in lost wages and damages.

Mead stated, “Three times we went through Eric’s drawers in his desk to look for what it was, I don’t know, but look for a syringe or powder or cutting tool.” Despite his suspicions, he reported finding nothing, saying he felt relieved that no drugs were discovered. He emphasized that he believed Kay was managing prescription medication related to his bipolar disorder.

The trial has been marked by tense exchanges between Mead and the plaintiff’s lead attorney, Rusty Hardin. Hardin pressed Mead on his decisions regarding Kay’s well-being, questioning whether he acted as a moral authority in a situation that required intervention. Mead replied, “I tried to help an individual and his family.”

The courtroom was filled with emotion as Mead recounted several troubling incidents involving Kay from 2013 to 2019, including a hospitalization in 2018 where Kay exhibited severe distress. Mead’s attempts to assist Kay included engaging the Angels’ employee assistance program and discussing Kay’s erratic behavior with his family.

In a particularly heated moment, Hardin highlighted inconsistencies in Mead’s claims, pointing to text messages between Mead and Kay’s wife, Camela, regarding failed interventions. Mead admitted he had never formally reported Kay’s behavior to the Angels’ management, despite multiple warning signs.

The trial continues to reveal the complex dynamics within the Angels organization and the tragic consequences of substance abuse. As testimonies unfold, the focus remains on accountability and the human cost of addiction.

The Skaggs family’s pursuit of justice is not only for financial compensation but also seeks to shed light on the broader issues of mental health and substance abuse in professional sports. The trial resumes on Friday, and the outcomes could have significant implications for the Angels and the sports community at large.

Stay tuned for updates as this critical case develops.