Five individuals have been charged in connection with the death of “Friends” star Matthew Perry, who passed away on October 28, 2023, due to the acute effects of ketamine. The charges were announced by federal officials in Los Angeles, highlighting the involvement of a doctor, Perry’s assistant, and others in a broader criminal network.
The Key Defendants- Matthew Perry
Jasveen Sangha: “The Ketamine Queen”
Jasveen Sangha, 41, allegedly known as “The Ketamine Queen,” is one of the lead defendants. She is accused of selling the batch of ketamine that led to Perry’s death. Sangha has a history of drug dealing and was previously involved in another overdose death in 2019.
Dr. Salvador Plasencia: The Doctor Behind the Scheme
Dr. Salvador Plasencia, 42, is a licensed medical doctor accused of distributing ketamine to Matthew Perry over several months. Despite knowing the dangers, Plasencia saw Perry’s addiction as a financial opportunity, charging exorbitant prices for the drug.
The Roles of Other Defendants
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Dr. Mark Chavez: The Supplier
Dr. Mark Chavez, 54, admitted to selling ketamine to Plasencia, who then distributed it to Perry. Chavez has agreed to plead guilty and faces up to 10 years in prison.
Eric Fleming: The Distributor
Eric Fleming, 54, distributed the ketamine that killed Perry. He has signed a plea agreement and faces up to 25 years in prison.
Kenneth Iwamasa: Perry’s Assistant
Kenneth Iwamasa, 59, Perry’s live-in assistant, admitted to injecting Perry with ketamine on the day of his death. Iwamasa has pleaded guilty and faces up to 15 years in prison.
The Final Hours of Matthew Perry
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Perry’s assistant, Iwamasa, injected him with multiple shots of ketamine on the day of his death. The plea agreement details that Perry requested a final injection while in his jacuzzi, after which he was found unresponsive and later pronounced dead.
Legal Consequences and Ongoing Investigations
The defendants face serious charges, with potential sentences ranging from 10 years to life in prison. The case has drawn attention to the exploitation of Perry’s addiction and the dangers of illegal drug distribution. Multiple agencies, including the DEA and LAPD, have been involved in the investigation.
Family’s Response
Matthew Perry’s family has expressed their heartbreak over his death but is hopeful that justice will be served as the legal proceedings continue.
