Matthew Perry’s Death Unveils a Disturbing Drug Network
In a tragic twist to the heartbreaking loss of “Friends” star Matthew Perry, federal authorities in Los Angeles have announced that five individuals have been charged in connection with the actor’s ketamine-related death. This revelation comes nearly a year after the beloved actor’s untimely passing in October 2023, which left fans worldwide in mourning.
Jasveen Sangha, 41, known as “The Ketamine Queen,” and Dr Salvador Plasencia, 42, known as “Dr P,” are at the centre of this case. Sangha is accused of selling 50 vials of ketamine to Perry for approximately $11,000, including the batch that led to his fatal overdose. Dr. Plasencia allegedly collaborated with Sangha and other defendants to obtain and distribute ketamine. Over a two-month period, they provided Perry with about 20 vials of ketamine, totalling $55,000 in cash. The vials, which cost the doctors $12 each, were sold to Perry for $2,000 each.
U.S. Attorney Martin Estrada revealed that Dr. Plasencia, who was supposed to uphold medical ethics, instead treated Perry’s addiction as an opportunity for profit. Text messages allegedly sent by Plasencia reflect his disregard for Perry’s well-being, including comments like, “I wonder how much this moron will pay,” and a desire to be Perry’s “go-to for drugs.” Estrada emphasized that Plasencia was aware of the dangers of ketamine, noting that the doctor had previously expressed concerns about Perry’s spiralling addiction but continued to supply him with the drug.
In addition to Sangha and Dr. Plasencia, three other individuals have been separately charged. Dr. Mark Chavez, 54, another licensed medical doctor, admitted in court documents to selling ketamine to Dr. Plasencia. Eric Fleming, 54, has confessed to distributing the specific batch of ketamine that resulted in Perry’s death. Lastly, Kenneth Iwamasa, 59, Perry’s live-in assistant, has admitted to administering the ketamine on the day of Perry’s passing.
During his arraignment, Plasencia, appearing in shackles and formal attire, pleaded not guilty. His defence attorney, Stefan Sacks, argued that Plasencia had already surrendered his Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) license and should not be barred from treating patients entirely. Sacks requested that the medical board review the situation before making a final decision. Judge Alka Sagar agreed to release Plasencia on a $100,000 bond, imposing conditions including surrendering his passport and posting a notice at his clinic about the ongoing federal case. The next hearing is scheduled for October 8.
Sangha, who also pleaded not guilty, faces severe scrutiny. At her arraignment, she appeared in a green Nirvana sweatshirt and purple hair, with shackles on her feet. Judge Sagar revoked her previous bond and remanded her to the custody of the U.S. Marshal, citing her extensive travel and lavish lifestyle funded by drug sales. The prosecution highlighted her involvement in two overdose deaths, including Perry’s. Sangha’s lawyer contested the prosecution’s use of her nickname, arguing that it unfairly prejudices the case against her.
Sangha’s next hearing is set for October 15. The indictment against her alleges that she was aware of ketamine’s dangers, having previously sold the drug to someone who died from an overdose in August 2019. A family member of the deceased had informed Sangha of the cause of death.
As the legal process continues, the hope is that it will bring justice for Matthew Perry and prompt greater vigilance in addressing the dangers of drug abuse and the illegal drug trade.
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