Ex-Angels Official Testifies on Drug Search Amid Skaggs Lawsuit

UPDATE: Testimony reveals shocking details about drug searches at the Los Angeles Angels organization. Tim Mead, the former head of communications, admitted in court today to searching the desk of his former employee, Eric Kay, multiple times for illicit drugs during Kay’s tenure before the tragic death of pitcher Tyler Skaggs in 2019.

The revelation came during the opening day of testimony in a wrongful death civil suit filed by Skaggs’ family against the Angels. Official sources confirm Kay was previously convicted for providing Skaggs with a fentanyl-laced pill that led to his fatal overdose, serving a 22-year prison sentence.

Mead testified he searched Kay’s desk three times, hoping to find drug paraphernalia. “I had suspicions and doubts but never found anything,” he stated, emphasizing he felt relieved not to uncover any drugs. This admission raises serious questions about the organization’s handling of Kay’s potential drug issues.

Kay’s history is troubling. He struggled with mental health issues, including bipolar disorder, which Mead acknowledged but did not believe contributed to illicit drug use. Yet, his actions prompted multiple searches of Kay’s workspace. “Whenever I discussed Kay’s potential drug issues, I was told he was taking prescription medication,” Mead continued, highlighting the complex dynamics at play.

The testimony revealed a troubling pattern of behavior from Kay, including multiple “off days” and erratic conduct, prompting Mead to involve the Angels’ employee assistance program. However, he admitted he never reported Kay’s behavior to higher management. “I tried to help an individual and his family,” Mead said, defending his actions amid intense questioning from the plaintiff’s attorney, Rusty Hardin.

Hardin painted a picture of Mead’s dual role as both concerned friend and negligent boss, presenting text messages between Mead and Kay’s wife, Camela, about failed interventions. The tension in the courtroom escalated as Hardin pressed Mead on whether he had ever played God in his decisions regarding Kay, to which Mead firmly responded, “I didn’t play God, counselor.”

The courtroom was rife with emotional testimonies as Mead detailed incidents from 2013 to 2019, including Kay’s hospitalization in 2018 after a distressing episode at the Angels’ stadium. This moment marked a turning point for Mead, who realized he could no longer manage Kay’s issues alone.

Despite his concerns, Mead admitted he never required Kay to take a drug test, nor did he escalate the matter to human resources regarding Kay’s behavior, which included inappropriate relationships with interns. This lack of action raises critical questions about accountability within the organization.

As the trial continues, the Skaggs family is seeking a staggering $118 million in lost wages and damages from the Angels. The implications of this case extend beyond financial restitution; they highlight the urgent need for systemic changes within sports organizations regarding mental health and substance abuse.

The courtroom drama is set to resume on Friday in Orange County Superior Court, where more revelations are anticipated. This case continues to unfold, and the stakes are high for both the Skaggs family and the Angels organization. Keep following for live updates as this compelling story develops.