US rocker Sambora enters treatment facility

LOS ANGELES, June 8 (Reuters) Richie Sambora, lead guitarist for the rock band Bon Jovi, has entered a treatment facility, a spokesman for the US group said.

Sambora, 47, checked into the Los Angeles facility on Wednesday.

No other details, such as the treatment he was seeking, were disclosed yesterday.

In recent months, Sambora has experienced personal hardships including a breakup with girlfriend Denise Richards, the finalization of his divorce from ex-wife Heather Locklear and the death of his father.

''Richie Sambora has entered an undisclosed treatment facility in Los Angeles. He asks that you respect his and his family's privacy at this time,'' said the spokesman.

New Jersey band Bon Jovi shot to stardom in the 1980s with songs like ''You Give Love a Bad Name'' and ''Livin' on a Prayer'' that topped record charts.

The group has a new CD, ''Lost Highway,'' scheduled to hit record stores on June 19, and is set to begin a tour on June 24 in London.

REUTERS NY BD0907