Colts owner Jim Irsay checks into treatment facility

In 2002, Colts owner Jim Irsay admitted to abusing prescription painkillers. (USATSI)

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Colts owner Jim Irsay was arrested Sunday night and charged with operating a vehicle while intoxicated, along with four felony counts of possession of a controlled substance. He was released from jail Monday afternoon, and on Tuesday, the team issued this statement:

"Yesterday, Jim Irsay took the first step toward regaining good health. He voluntarily checked into a highly-respected health care facility and is committed to undergoing the treatment and care necessary to help him meet his challenges head-on. Jim, the Irsay family, and the Colts organization are all deeply appreciative of the incredible outpouring of support and compassion from our fans and the Indiana community."

On Monday, Indianapolis Star columnist Bob Kravitz wrote that "For years, Colts insiders have known that Irsay was struggling again with drugs. For years, they fought to get him into rehabilitation. At the very least, they fought to get him a driver in the hopes of keeping away from getting behind the wheel." And a source told Kravitz that Irsay is "a sick, sick man" who "desperately needs help."

And now it appears he will get it.

Back in 2002, Irsay admitted to abusing prescription painkillers.

“After several years of orthopedic operations and procedures, accompanied by long bouts of chronic pain, I became dependent on prescription pain medications,” he said at the time. “I have successfully dealt with my dependence and my chronic pain issues. This has been a personal journey, and I ask that my privacy, as well as that of my family, be respected on this health issue.”

Irsay will almost certainly face discipline from the league office for violating the personal conduct policy, which applies to everyone -- players, trainers, coaches, front-office executives and owners.

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