From forged documents to ‘Ketamine queen’, here are the latest updates around Friends star Matthew Perry’s death

Months after the tragic passing of beloved "Friends" star Matthew Perry, significant developments have emerged. Perry was found dead on October 28, 2023, in the hot tub of his Los Angeles home, with the cause of death attributed to the "acute effects of ketamine." At the time, his death was ruled an accidental overdose. However, recent investigations have led to the arrest of several individuals, including Perry's personal assistant and two doctors, in connection with his death.

In the months following Perry's death, the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) collaborated with federal authorities, including the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), to investigate the source of the ketamine found in Perry's system. The investigation revealed that Perry had been administered ketamine injections in the weeks leading up to his death. Evidence was gathered through search warrants, and it became clear that Perry's death was not just an accident but the result of a coordinated effort by multiple individuals to supply him with the drug.

According to court documents, Perry's assistant, Kenneth Iwamasa, along with Dr Salvador Plasencia and Dr Mark Chavez, played key roles in obtaining and administering the ketamine. The investigation revealed that Perry had been on ketamine infusion therapy, but the ketamine found in his system at the time of death was not from his last known therapy session, which occurred over a week before his death.

Arrests and charges

The federal charges filed in connection with Perry's death are extensive. Dr Plasencia, known as "Dr. P," is accused of conspiracy to distribute ketamine, seven counts of ketamine distribution, and altering and falsifying records related to the federal investigation. Plasencia, who had no prior disciplinary actions on his medical record, allegedly injected Perry with large doses of ketamine, even after Perry exhibited severe reactions to the drug.

Jasveen Sangha, another key figure in the case, was arrested and charged with conspiracy to distribute ketamine, maintaining a drug-involved premise, and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and ketamine. Sangha, dubbed the "Ketamine Queen," reportedly operated a stash house in North Hollywood, where large quantities of ketamine were stored and distributed.
Kenneth Iwamasa, Perry's personal assistant, admitted to administering several ketamine injections to Perry, including on the day of his death. He has pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute ketamine causing death. Iwamasa had no formal medical training and was reportedly instructed by the other defendants on how to administer the drug.

Dr Mark Chavez, another physician involved, has agreed to plead guilty to conspiracy to distribute ketamine. Chavez allegedly wrote fraudulent prescriptions and obtained ketamine from a wholesale distributor, which he then sold to Plasencia.

Finally, Erik Fleming, a friend of Perry's, was charged with conspiracy to distribute ketamine and distribution of ketamine resulting in death. Fleming reportedly purchased ketamine from Sangha and delivered it to Iwamasa, who then administered it to Perry.

Legal implications

The charges against these individuals carry severe penalties. Dr. Plasencia and Dr. Chavez face up to 10 years in prison for each count related to ketamine distribution, with additional time possible for record falsification. Sangha, facing the most severe charges, could be sentenced to 10 years to life in prison. Iwamasa and Fleming also face significant prison time, with sentences ranging from 15 to 25 years.

As the legal proceedings continue, more details are expected to emerge about the circumstances surrounding Perry's death. The case serves as a sombre reminder of the dangers of drug abuse and the responsibilities of those in the medical profession to protect, rather than exploit, vulnerable individuals.