Matthew Perry’s personal assistant, two doctors, and two other people have been indicted for their roles in procuring ketamine that led to his death.
According to federal court documents filed in California, Perry’s assistant and an acquaintance collaborated with two doctors and a drug dealer to obtain tens of thousands of dollars worth of ketamine for Perry, who had a long history of substance abuse.
Key points of the indictment
Role of the defendants: The indictment details how Jasveen Sangha, dubbed the “Ketamine Queen,” and Dr Salvador Plasencia were involved in obtaining and distributing ketamine. Sangha maintained a “stash house” in North Hollywood, reported NYT. Plasencia, a physician at an urgent care center, facilitated the drug distribution despite Perry’s known history of drug abuse.
Charges and evidence: Plasencia and Sangha are charged with conspiracy to distribute ketamine, distribution resulting in death, and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. Court documents reveal Plasencia’s derogatory texts about Perry, including “I wonder how much this moron will pay” and “Let’s find out,” reported NYT.
Use and abuse of ketamine: Ketamine, used increasingly for mental health treatments, was also abused recreationally. Perry had sought treatment for depression and anxiety, leading to addiction to intravenous ketamine. The autopsy report showed that Perry’s ketamine levels were equivalent to those used in general anesthesia.
Guilty pleas and sentences: Erik Fleming, an acquaintance of Perry’s, has pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute ketamine and distribution resulting in death. Dr Mark Chavez admitted to selling ketamine to Plasencia, while Kenneth Iwamasa, Perry’s assistant, injected him with ketamine. Iwamasa faces up to 15 years in prison, while Fleming faces up to 25 years. Chavez will be arraigned on August 30 and faces up to 10 years in prison.
Investigation details: The DEA and US Postal Inspection Service are investigating the case. Sangha’s home was raided in March, resulting in the seizure of 79 bottles of ketamine, nearly 2,000 grams of methamphetamine, and other drugs.
Financial exploitation: Plasencia and Sangha were accused of charging exorbitant prices for ketamine. At one point, they charged Perry $2,000 per vial, which cost about $12.
Legal proceedings: Sangha and Plasencia have pleaded not guilty. Sangha is being held without bond, and Plasencia’s bond is set at $100,000. Their trials are scheduled for October.