Investigators have revealed significant findings following the death of actor Matthew Perry, who was best known for his role as Chandler Bing on the sitcom Friends. Perry was found deceased in a hot tub at his Los Angeles home in October 2023. Initially thought to be an accident—given his history of battling addiction and his recent ketamine infusion therapy—an autopsy indicated high levels of ketamine in his system. These levels correspond to those typically used for general anesthesia, raising concerns about circumstances surrounding his death.
A year-long investigation led by U.S. prosecutors uncovered an extensive underground ketamine distribution network, along with allegations of attempted cover-ups and another unrelated death, resulting in five arrests. Among those charged were Perry’s assistant, Kenneth Iwamasa, who pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute ketamine leading to death, and two others, Dr. Mark Chavez and Eric Fleming, who also admitted to drug distribution conspiracies. Dr. Salvador Plasencia, who reportedly provided ketamine to Perry, has been accused of falsifying medical records.
The investigation turned its focus on Jasveen Sangha, dubbed the “Ketamine Queen.” Sangha is alleged to have sold Perry 50 vials of ketamine for around $11,000 and is accused of running a drug operation out of her North Hollywood home, which authorities described as a “drug-selling emporium.” Law enforcement officials reported finding over 80 vials of ketamine and various controlled substances in the residence.
Prosecutors claimed that individuals charged in the case took advantage of Perry, who sought cheaper ketamine as his addiction worsened. Text messages indicate a concerning lack of regard for Perry’s health, with one doctor shamelessly discussing how much money he could extort from the actor.
Efforts to conceal their actions came to light after Perry’s death. Investigators found messages instructing associates to delete communications related to their drug dealings. Sangha was even linked to a previous overdose death in 2019, raising further alarm about her actions.
Iwamasa, who discovered Perry’s body, was also responsible for administering multiple ketamine injections to the actor in the days leading up to his death. Despite lacking any medical training, Iwamasa allegedly administered over 20 doses of the drug, contributing significantly to the circumstances that led to Perry’s untimely passing.
Matthew Perry was candid about his struggles with addiction, as detailed in his memoir, and expressed a desire to help others facing similar challenges. Following his death, the Matthew Perry Foundation was established, reflecting his commitment to helping those in need. Authorities believe the high-profile nature of this case could contribute to preventing further tragedies and fulfilling Perry’s legacy of helping others.