Matthew Perry’s 2022 memoir humorously remarked that the drug ketamine might as well have been named after him due to its seeming suitability for his needs. Tragically, this jest took on a darker significance when Perry died on October 28, 2023, at his Pacific Palisades home from acute ketamine effects.
The Los Angeles County medical examiner’s report indicated that Perry was found unresponsive in his swimming pool hot tub, with ketamine and drowning being factors in his death.
Perry’s untimely death at 54 was deeply mourned, especially given his previous struggle with substance abuse, which he openly discussed in his memoir. He had survived several near-fatal encounters with addiction and had expressed gratitude for still being alive despite these battles.
In his book, Perry shared that he had used ketamine extensively in 2020, but ultimately found it unsatisfactory due to its unpleasant aftereffects. Ketamine, initially known as a recreational drug used for hallucinations, has recently gained recognition as a treatment for conditions like depression and chronic pain. Perry was drawn to its potential benefits but eventually found it problematic.
Upon his death, the autopsy revealed that Perry’s ketamine levels were consistent with those found under general anesthesia, leading to questions about how he obtained such a high quantity. This prompted a criminal investigation involving the Los Angeles Police Department, Drug Enforcement Administration, and U.S. Postal Service.
In August 2024, authorities charged five individuals, including two doctors and Perry’s live-in assistant, in connection with his death. The investigation uncovered a widespread illegal distribution network involving these defendants. The charges included conspiracy to distribute ketamine and various other drug-related offenses.
Jasveen Sangha, dubbed the “Ketamine Queen,” and Dr. Salvador Plasencia were among those charged. Sangha faces serious charges, including conspiracy and multiple counts of ketamine distribution, with a potential life sentence. Plasencia, who faces charges including falsifying medical records, is at risk of up to 120 years in prison.
Three other individuals, including Perry’s assistant Kenneth Iwamasa and drug dealer Eric Fleming, also faced charges related to Perry’s death. Iwamasa admitted to repeatedly injecting Perry with ketamine, while Fleming pleaded guilty to charges including distribution of ketamine resulting in death.
Dr. Mark Chavez, who previously ran a ketamine clinic, was also charged with conspiracy to distribute ketamine. He admitted to selling diverted ketamine from his clinic, facing up to 10 years in prison.
The investigation revealed that Perry, seeking treatment for anxiety and depression, turned to both unscrupulous doctors and street dealers for ketamine when legitimate medical options became insufficient. He ended up paying exorbitant prices for the drug and became addicted.
The indictment detailed how ketamine was procured and administered to Perry, including how doctors and dealers collaborated to provide him with the drug. On October 24, 2023, Fleming delivered ketamine to Perry’s residence, where Iwamasa administered multiple injections. Perry’s death resulted from this extensive use of ketamine.
In response to the charges, Perry’s family expressed their sorrow and appreciation for the thorough investigation. They hope that the legal actions will serve as a deterrent to others involved in illegal drug distribution and ensure justice for Perry.
