Matthew Perry's Death Sparks Federal Probe: Doctors Exploited Addiction with Overpriced Ketamine
June 16, 2025
Jasveen Sangha, referred to as 'The Ketamine Queen,' faces multiple charges, including one count of conspiracy to distribute ketamine and is scheduled for trial in August 2025.
Perry reportedly paid around $55,000 for six to eight shots of ketamine per day over the month he was receiving the drug from Plasencia and others.
The plea deal was announced on June 13, 2025, and his sentencing is anticipated following the plea, which may reduce his sentence to just a few years.
Dr. Salvador Plasencia, a physician linked to Perry's death, has accepted a plea deal, pleading guilty to four counts of distributing ketamine to the actor.
In the weeks leading up to Perry's death, Plasencia and Chavez distributed 20 vials of ketamine to him for a total of $55,000, significantly marking up the price from their own cost.
U.S. prosecutors accused the five defendants of exploiting Perry's addiction problems for financial gain, with evidence suggesting they were aware of the health risks associated with ketamine use.
Chavez has already pleaded guilty and faces up to 10 years in prison, while federal authorities have noted that Perry fell back into the hands of unscrupulous doctors.
The vials, purchased for $12 each, were sold to Perry for up to $2,000, despite his known severe addiction and ongoing therapy involving ketamine for depression.
The investigation revealed a pattern of exploitation, with law enforcement officials stating that Perry's desperation led him to unscrupulous medical professionals and drug dealers rather than receiving proper help.
Plasencia is accused of being a central figure in the case, having organized the exploitation of Perry, who was in the midst of a relapse, despite not providing the fatal vial directly.
Perry's long-standing struggle with addiction was well-documented, dating back to his time on 'Friends', where he was a prominent figure alongside major stars like Jennifer Aniston and Courteney Cox.
Matthew Perry was found dead in his hot tub in October 2023, prompting a federal investigation that has intensified over the past year.
Summary based on 25 sources
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Sources

The New York Times • Jun 17, 2025
Doctor Who Gave Matthew Perry Ketamine Will Plead Guilty, U.S. Says
The Guardian • Jun 16, 2025
Doctor charged with suppling Matthew Perry ketamine agrees to plead guilty
Los Angeles Times • Jun 16, 2025
Matthew Perry’s doctor agrees to plead guilty to distributing ketamine to actor before his death - Los Angeles Times
NBC News • Jun 17, 2025
Doctor agrees to plead guilty in Matthew Perry's overdose death