Ex-Angels Official Admits Searching Desk for Drugs Amid Trial

BREAKING: Former Los Angeles Angels communications chief Tim Mead revealed today that he searched the desk of ex-employee Eric Kay three times for illicit drugs during his tenure, prior to the tragic death of pitcher Tyler Skaggs in 2019. This shocking admission unfolded on the first day of testimony in a wrongful death civil suit filed by Skaggs’ family against the Angels, raising urgent questions about team oversight and player health.

Mead’s testimony comes as the Skaggs family seeks $118 million in lost wages and additional damages, alleging that the organization failed in its duty to protect its players. Kay, who served as the Angels’ communication director, is already serving a 22-year prison sentence after being convicted in 2022 for providing Skaggs with a fentanyl-laced pill that caused his overdose in a Texas hotel room.

During his testimony, 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 did not find any incriminating evidence and expressed relief that he did not. Mead maintained that he believed Kay was mismanaging prescribed medication due to mental health issues, including bipolar disorder.

The courtroom was tense as Rusty Hardin, the plaintiff’s lead attorney, pressed Mead on whether he “played God” in making decisions regarding Kay’s welfare. Mead firmly responded, “I didn’t play God, counselor. I tried to help an individual and his family.” The exchange underscores the emotional weight of the trial, as the Skaggs family grapples with the loss of their son.

Mead’s detailed account included instances of Kay’s erratic behavior, spanning from 2013 to 2019. He highlighted Kay’s hospitalization in 2018 following a concerning episode at Angels Stadium, where Kay was visibly distressed. Despite expressing concern multiple times, Mead admitted he never reported Kay’s behavior to the Angels’ management. He did, however, involve the Angels’ employee assistance program in attempts to get Kay help.

As the trial progresses, the focus is on the Angels’ responsibility in safeguarding their players. Mead’s testimony revealed that he had not mandated a drug test for Kay, nor had he escalated concerns to human resources, despite knowledge of two problematic incidents involving interns related to Kay’s conduct.

Tensions peaked when Hardin confronted Mead about the implications of Kay’s behavior while on the job. Mead acknowledged that if Kay had been intoxicated at work, that would constitute a violation of the team’s drug policy. “Yes sir,” he stated when asked directly about the matter.

The courtroom atmosphere was charged as Hardin presented text conversations between Mead and Kay’s wife, Camela, revealing ongoing concerns about Kay’s mental health and substance abuse issues. Mead’s testimony continues on Friday in Orange County Superior Court, as the Skaggs family’s quest for accountability unfolds.

This case highlights the critical need for better mental health support within professional sports organizations and raises serious questions about the responsibilities of team officials in ensuring player safety and well-being. As the trial resumes, the spotlight remains on the Angels and their role in this tragic story.