Doctor Mark Chavez, who was involved in the investigation of actor Matthew Perry’s death, has pleaded guilty to conspiracy charges related to the distribution of ketamine. The 54-year-old doctor appeared in federal court in Los Angeles on October 2, where he admitted to one count of conspiracy to distribute the drug, facing a potential maximum prison sentence of 10 years. His sentencing is set for April 2, 2025, and for now, he is released on a $50,000 bond, having surrendered his passport and medical license.
Chavez had previously entered a plea deal during his first court appearance on August 30, agreeing to take responsibility for conspiracy charges concerning the surgical anesthetic ketamine. His attorney mentioned that Chavez feels profound remorse for Perry’s death as well as its effects on others. Matthew Perry was found dead at 54 in his Pacific Palisades home on October 28, 2023, with the cause of death later determined to be the acute effects of ketamine. It was revealed that he had been receiving ketamine therapy for anxiety and depression shortly before his passing.
Chavez admitted to selling ketamine to Dr. Salvador Plasencia and making false claims to acquire more of the drug. He is the third individual to plead guilty in connection with this case, while others involved have entered not guilty pleas. Ketamine is an anesthetic known for its dissociative effects and has been misused in various incidents.