Mark Chavez, the doctor of the late actor Matthew Perry, has pleaded guilty in the ongoing investigation into Perry’s death, and he could face up to 10 years in prison.
Chavez, aged 54, appeared in a Los Angeles federal court on October 2, where he accepted a plea deal for one count of conspiracy to distribute ketamine, an anesthetic. He is among two doctors charged in connection with Perry’s death in October 2023. His sentencing is set for April 2, 2025, and he is currently released on a $50,000 bond. Chavez has surrendered his passport and medical license and has committed not to practice medicine during this time.
During a hearing on August 30, Chavez agreed to plead guilty to conspiracy charges related to the illegal distribution of ketamine, as reported. His attorney stated that Chavez feels deep remorse for both Perry’s death and the implications for other patients. Although he did not accept full responsibility in court, the attorney conveyed that Chavez is making efforts to atone for the situation.
Matthew Perry was found dead at 54 in his home on October 28, 2023, with the initial cause of death appearing to be drowning in his jacuzzi. It was later revealed that his death was the result of the “acute effects of ketamine.” Perry had recently been undergoing ketamine therapy for anxiety and depression, with the last treatment being just over a week before his death. The ketamine found in his system was not prescribed by a licensed professional.
In relation to Perry’s death, Chavez and four others—including Dr. Salvador Plasencia and Erik Fleming—were arrested on August 15. Chavez admitted to providing ketamine to Plasencia, which he took from his previous clinic, and further obtained additional supplies through fraudulent means, including fake prescriptions.
Prosecutors noted that Chavez was aware of Plasencia’s lack of experience in administering ketamine treatments when he offered to sell the substance to him. Chavez is the third person to plead guilty in this case; others, including Plasencia and Javeen Sangha, have pleaded not guilty.
Ketamine is an anesthetic known for its dissociative and hallucinogenic effects, often leaving users feeling disconnected from reality. It is utilized in medical settings for pain relief and sedation, but it can also be misused, leading to serious consequences.