Judge allows Tiger Woods to leave United States for treatment
A judge has granted Tiger Woods permission to leave the United States to seek treatment at an international inpatient facility. The move comes four days after the 15-time major champion was arrested on suspicion of DUI following a rollover car crash in Florida. Martin County Court Judge Darren Steele approved the motion Wednesday following a teleconference with Woods' attorney Douglas Duncan and Assistant State Attorney Caroline Houston.
Duncan argued the relocation was a matter of medical necessity, citing an "urgent need for a level of care that cannot safely or effectively be done within the United States" given that Woods' privacy had been repeatedly compromised. RELATED: Tiger Woods is not OK "Ongoing medical scrutiny and public exposure create significant barriers to his care," Duncan wrote, "and would result in setbacks and an inability to fully engage in treatment. " Woods entered a not guilty plea Tuesday to misdemeanor charges of DUI and refusal to submit to a lawful test.
That same day, he issued a public statement acknowledging the gravity of his circumstances. "I know and understand the seriousness of the situation I find myself in today," Woods said. "I am stepping away for a period of time to seek treatment and focus on my health.
This is necessary in order for me to prioritize my well-being and work toward lasting recovery. I'm committed to taking the time needed to return to a healthier, stronger, and more focused place, both personally and professionally. " According to the arrest affidavit , Woods was found carrying two hydrocodone pills in his left pants pocket at the scene.
He told a sheriff's deputy he had been distracted—looking at his phone and changing the radio—when the vehicle ahead of him slowed. The deputy noted several impairment indicators: profuse sweating despite cool temperatures, bloodshot and glassy eyes with severely dilated pupils, lethargic and slow movements, and persistent hiccups throughout the encounter. The arrest is the latest in a series of legal and personal difficulties for Woods.