It was just a few months ago that a jury convicted Conrad Murray of involuntary manslaughter charges in the death of pop superstar Michael Jackson. Just last week, the world felt the loss of another musical icon, after Whitney Houston was found unresponsive at the Beverly Hilton on the eve of the Grammy Awards. Officials say that prescription medications were found in the hotel room.

Sources indicate that toxicology tests were performed during the autopsy, however, results of those tests from the crime lab are not expected for weeks. In the meantime, Los Angeles officials reportedly are seeking to use the subpoena power of the law to gain information about what substances were prescribed to Houston before her death.

Even with the pending toxicology tests, which ostensibly would give insight into what may have been involved in the tragedy, authorities say that they want to know more about what prescription drugs may have been prescribed to the musical legend.

Sources say that the probe is not a criminal investigation into potential prescription medication crimes, but a routine investigation into Houston's mysterious death. While most people in the country want answers, it is important to remember that any investigation can quickly turn into a criminal investigation.

Los Angeles prescription medication attorneys know that law enforcement agencies across California look deeply into potential illegal use of prescription medications. Although our health system strictly regulates the distribution of prescription drugs, law enforcement nevertheless sharply scrutinizes people from all walks of life who are found with prescription medications in their possession.

Possession of duly authorized medications can even put many people between a rock and a hard place should law enforcement grow suspicious of the source or purpose of the drugs. If you are suspected of a prescription drug offense in Southern California, it is important to consider speaking with a seasoned criminal defense attorney to help protect your rights and medical privacy against the power of the government.

Source: Los Angeles Times, "Whitney Houston death: Subpoenas likely for doctors, pharmacies," Richard Winton and Andrew Blankstein, Feb. 15, 2012