By The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has announced charges against five individuals in connection with the death of former “Friends” star Matthew Perry. During a press conference on August 15, 2024, U.S. Attorney Martin Estrada revealed shocking details about the alleged exploitation of Perry’s addiction issues.
The DOJ has charged Jasveen Sangha, allegedly known as “The Ketamine Queen,” Dr. Salvador Plascencia, a licensed physician, Kenneth Iwamasa, Perry’s personal assistant, Erik Fleming, and Dr. Mark Chavez. These individuals are accused of knowingly supplying and administering ketamine to Perry, taking advantage of his addiction. Estrada stated that Perry had relapsed into addiction in Fall 2023, shortly before his death in October.
According to the DOJ, Dr. Plascencia allegedly contacted Dr. Chavez to obtain ketamine for Perry. In text messages, Plascencia reportedly wrote, “I wonder how much this moron will pay” and “Let’s find out,” highlighting the alleged exploitation of Perry’s vulnerability.
Kenneth Iwamasa admitted to “repeatedly” injecting Perry with ketamine without medical training, including on the day of his death. Dr. Chavez, who previously operated a ketamine clinic, allegedly supplied the drug. Jasveen Sangha faces multiple charges related to drug distribution and maintaining drug-involved premises.
Iwamasa has pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute ketamine causing death. Dr. Chavez will plead guilty to conspiracy to distribute ketamine. Erik Fleming pleaded guilty to conspiracy and distribution of ketamine resulting in death. Sangha and Plascencia will be arraigned later on August 15.
Perry’s autopsy, released in December 2023, revealed his cause of death as acute effects of ketamine. The nature of death was determined to be “accidental.” At the time, Perry was undergoing ketamine infusion therapy.
