Matthew Perry’s Death: Five Charged in Connection with Ketamine Overdose

Assistant, Doctors, and Drug Dealer Accused in “Underground Criminal Network”

Matthew Perry, the beloved actor known for his role as Chandler Bing on “Friends,” died in October 2021 due to a ketamine overdose. Now, five individuals have been charged in connection with his death, including his personal assistant, two doctors, and a drug dealer.

Underground Network

U.S. Attorney Martin Estrada has characterized the group as a “broad underground criminal network” that provided Perry with excessive amounts of ketamine. The doctors, in particular, are accused of exploiting Perry’s history of addiction for their financial gain.

Medical Malpractice

Prosecutors allege that Dr. Salvador Plasencia and an unidentified second doctor knowingly provided Perry with ketamine in amounts that exceeded safe levels. Plasencia reportedly joked about the price Perry would pay and even falsified medical records to cover up his actions.

Drug Dealing

Jasveen Sangha, known as the “Ketamine Queen,” allegedly supplied the drug that ultimately caused Perry’s death. She has been denied bond due to concerns about her destruction of evidence and lavish lifestyle funded by drug sales.

Assistant’s Role

Kenneth Iwamura, Perry’s personal assistant, played a significant role in obtaining and administering the ketamine. He admitted to delivering 50 vials of the drug to Perry, including 25 just four days before his death.

Consequences

Dr. Plasencia faces up to 120 years in prison if convicted, while Sangha could receive a life sentence. Dr. Mark Chavez, the third doctor involved, has agreed to plead guilty to conspiracy to distribute ketamine.

Addiction and Celebrity Deaths

Perry’s death highlights the dangerous consequences of addiction and the role that enablers can play in fatal overdoses. Similar cases have seen drug suppliers and medical professionals prosecuted after celebrity deaths related to fentanyl and propofol.

Lessons Learned

The tragedy underscores the importance of responsible prescribing practices and the need for strong enforcement against those who exploit vulnerable individuals struggling with addiction. It also serves as a reminder of the devastating impact of drug abuse on both individuals and their loved ones.