The death of actor Matthew Perry has led to multiple arrests as authorities uncover a network involved in supplying him with ketamine, resulting in his fatal overdose. U.S. Attorney Martin Estrada announced the charges during a press conference, revealing that Perry’s live-in assistant, two doctors, and an individual known as “the Ketamine Queen” were among those implicated.
Perry, widely known for his role in Friends, was found dead in his pool on October 28, 2023. The Los Angeles County medical examiner determined his death was caused by the “acute effects of ketamine,” prompting a criminal investigation.
Federal Charges Filed in Connection to Perry’s Death
Estrada detailed the investigation’s findings, stating that the defendants formed part of an underground criminal network responsible for distributing large amounts of ketamine to Perry and others. The five defendants, who allegedly took advantage of Perry’s addiction for profit, have been charged with various crimes related to drug distribution and conspiracy.
Perry’s Struggles and Fatal Relapse
Perry, who had openly battled addiction, reportedly relapsed in the fall of 2023. DEA Administrator Anne Milgram explained that Perry became addicted to intravenous ketamine while seeking treatment for anxiety and depression. As his addiction grew, Perry turned to street dealers for a cheaper and faster supply, which ultimately led to his overdose.
Individuals Charged in the Case
- Jasveen Sangha, aka “the Ketamine Queen”: Allegedly provided the ketamine that killed Perry. She faces multiple charges, including conspiracy to distribute ketamine and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
- Dr. Salvador Plasencia: Accused of supplying ketamine to Perry and his assistant outside of legitimate medical practice. He faces up to 10 years in federal prison for each ketamine-related count.
- Erik Fleming: Admitted to distributing ketamine to Perry’s assistant and has pleaded guilty to charges related to Perry’s death.
- Kenneth Iwamasa: Perry’s assistant, who admitted to injecting Perry with ketamine multiple times on the day of his death. He has pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute ketamine causing death.
- Dr. Mark Chavez: Admitted to selling ketamine to Plasencia and has agreed to plead guilty to conspiracy charges.
Background on Ketamine and Its Use
Ketamine, a dissociative anesthetic with hallucinogenic effects, is legal for medical use but has also gained popularity as a street drug. Perry was undergoing ketamine therapy for mental health issues, but the coroner ruled that the high levels of ketamine in his system at death were from an illicit source.
Ongoing Investigation
The investigation into Perry’s death continues, with authorities focusing on the broader implications of the illegal ketamine distribution network. Perry’s death has been ruled an accident, with contributing factors including drowning, coronary artery disease, and the effects of buprenorphine, a drug used to treat opioid addiction.
