- Matthew Perry's death caused by ketamine overdose, investigation finds
- Actor's struggles with addiction led to exploitation by illicit drug network
- Five people charged in connection with Perry's death
Matthew Perry, the beloved star of “Friends,” tragically died on October 28, 2023, from a ketamine overdose, a dose administered during his last moments in a jacuzzi overlooking the Santa Monica Mountains. The details of his final day were disclosed in court documents following an extensive police investigation that has now implicated five individuals in connection with his death.
Perry’s fatal dose of ketamine, a hallucinogenic anesthetic with growing popularity for off-label use in treating depression and anxiety, was administered as his third injection of the day. The actor was discovered face down in the jacuzzi, and medics confirmed his death on the scene, with the coroner attributing it primarily to ketamine.
Court documents reveal a troubling pattern of Perry’s drug use and provide insight into the underground ketamine network in Hollywood. The actor had a long history of addiction, which he had openly discussed, even during his time on “Friends.” Despite efforts to stay sober, Perry’s struggle with substance abuse resurfaced with his use of ketamine.
Federal authorities uncovered a broad criminal network involved in the distribution of ketamine across Los Angeles. Perry’s transition from treatment at a licensed ketamine clinic to obtaining the drug through “unscrupulous doctors” and street dealers was detailed in the investigation.
Key figures charged in connection with Perry’s death include:
- Kenneth Iwamasa: Perry’s live-in personal assistant, who has pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute ketamine causing death. Iwamasa admitted to assisting Perry in obtaining and administering the drug.
- Dr. Salvador Plasencia: A physician accused of supplying Perry with ketamine and instructing Iwamasa in its administration. He has pleaded not guilty to the charges.
- Dr. Mark Chavez: Another physician who admitted to selling ketamine to Dr. Plasencia. He has pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute ketamine.
- Jasveen Sangha: Alleged street dealer known as “The Ketamine Queen,” accused of providing the drugs that led to Perry’s death. She has pleaded not guilty.
- Eric Fleming: A middleman who distributed drugs from Sangha to Perry. He has pleaded guilty to conspiracy and distribution charges.
The investigation sheds light on the troubling intersection of celebrity culture and medical ethics. Experts note that the allure of VIP treatment can lead to compromised care, with celebrities often surrounded by individuals who may overlook or enable harmful behaviors.
Dr. David Mahjoubi, president of the American Board of Ketamine Physicians, highlighted the ease with which celebrities can access ketamine, citing its availability through both legal and underground channels. He also noted the drug’s growing popularity among celebrities seeking alternative treatments for mental health issues.
The rise of online ketamine clinics exploiting regulatory loopholes has further complicated the situation. These services often market the drug for off-label uses not approved by the FDA, contributing to the burgeoning ketamine market. The FDA has recently issued warnings about the risks associated with unmonitored ketamine use.
Dr. Gerard Sanacora of Yale University pointed out the need for caution, as the long-term effects and safety of ketamine treatment remain uncertain. He likened the current situation to the early days of the opioid epidemic, with similar concerns about the normalization of risky drug practices.
