In a shocking development, five individuals have been charged in connection with the death of beloved “Friends” actor Matthew Perry, who passed away on October 28, 2023. Among those indicted are Perry’s assistant and two doctors, who are accused of illegally supplying the actor with ketamine, a powerful anesthetic that led to his tragic death.
The Charges and Key Individuals Involved
Federal prosecutors have revealed that the group conspired to provide Perry with large quantities of ketamine despite knowing his history of substance abuse. The individuals charged include:
- Jasveen Sangha, dubbed the “Ketamine Queen,” is believed to have been the leading supplier of the drug.
- Salvador Plasencia, known as “Dr. P.,” a physician who allegedly facilitated the supply and administration of ketamine to Perry.
- Kenneth Iwamasa, Perry’s live-in assistant, is accused of injecting Perry with the drug in the days leading up to his death.
The group reportedly communicated in code, referring to the ketamine as “Dr. Pepper” and “cans” to conceal their illicit activities. The indictment also details how Plasencia and others mocked Perry in text messages, with one message saying, “I wonder how much this moron will pay.”
Perry’s Struggles and Final Days
Matthew Perry, best known for his role as Chandler Bing on the hit TV show “Friends,” had long struggled with addiction. In the weeks before his death, Perry was reportedly undergoing ketamine therapy for depression and anxiety. However, the treatment turned deadly as he was supplied with increasingly dangerous amounts of the drug.
The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s office ruled Perry’s death as caused by “acute effects of ketamine,” with contributing factors including drowning and coronary artery disease. The actor was found face down in his hot tub at his Los Angeles home.
Legal and Public Reactions
The case has drawn widespread attention because of Perry’s fame and the alleged exploitation of his vulnerability by those entrusted with his care. The defendants face serious charges, with Plasencia potentially facing up to 120 years in federal prison if convicted.
The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Department of Justice (DOJ) have emphasized their commitment to holding those responsible accountable, especially when it involves exploiting someone’s addiction for financial gain.
Perry’s death has left his fans and co-stars devastated, with many remembering him for his humor, talent, and the joy he brought to millions as part of the iconic “Friends” ensemble.