Nearly ten months after the tragic death of actor Matthew Perry, known for his role in the sitcom “Friends,” law enforcement has announced charges against five individuals linked to the actor’s demise.
The investigation has uncovered a web of illegal ketamine distribution, exploitation of Perry’s addiction, and medical malpractice.
The charges, detailed in a press conference by the U.S. Attorney’s Office, include:
- Dr. Salvador Plasencia – Accused of not only supplying Perry with ketamine but also falsifying medical records to cover his tracks. Plasencia allegedly saw Perry’s addiction as an opportunity for profit, charging him $55,000 for the drug over two months.
- Jasveen Sangha (known as “The Ketamine Queen) – Charged with providing the lethal dose of ketamine. Sangha’s role in the distribution network was pivotal, leading to Perry’s fatal overdose.
- Kenneth Iwamasa (Perry’s live-in personal assistant) – Admitted to administering the ketamine shot on the day Perry was found dead in his hot tub. His actions were part of a broader conspiracy to distribute the drug.
- Dr. Mark Chavez – Implicated in aiding Plasencia in obtaining the ketamine.
- Eric Fleming – Pleaded guilty to distributing the ketamine that ultimately led to Perry’s death, acting as a middleman in this illicit supply chain.
How did the investigation unfold?
The investigation, which initially showed no signs of foul play, took a significant turn when Perry’s autopsy revealed high levels of ketamine, a drug he was using off-label for depression treatment. This finding led to a broader inquiry into the sources of his drug supply, revealing a network that capitalized on his vulnerability.
Prosecutors highlighted the exploitation of Perry’s condition, with officials stating, “The desperation that led Perry to these individuals was not met with help, as it should have been with the doctors.”