Investigators Reveal Key Findings in the Matthew Perry Case
The tragic death of “Friends” actor Matthew Perry, discovered last year in a hot tub at his Los Angeles residence, initially appeared to be an accident linked to his ongoing treatment for depression with ketamine. However, further investigations have unveiled a significant underground ketamine distribution network and implicated several individuals, including doctors, Perry’s assistant, and an alleged dealer referred to as the “Ketamine Queen.” This investigation has also connected to another overdose death.
Among the accused is Dr. Salvador Plasencia, who allegedly called Perry “a moron” and discussed inflated drug prices over texts, charging the actor over 165 times the actual cost of ketamine.
The “Ketamine Queen,” Jasveen Sangha, is recognized as a primary supplier of the drugs leading to Perry’s demise on October 28, 2023. Authorities allege that she sold Perry 50 vials of ketamine for about $11,000 and ran a drug-selling operation from her North Hollywood home. Following a search of her property, authorities uncovered over 80 vials of ketamine, numerous pills including methamphetamine, cocaine, and Xanax, and a handgun. Sangha’s home has been described by federal officials as a hub for distributing drugs primarily to wealthy individuals.
As Perry’s addiction intensified, he sought cheaper sources for ketamine, which led him to exploitative dealers who prioritized profit over his health. It has been reported that he paid around $2,000 for vials that typically cost about $12 each, contributing to a staggering total of $55,000 spent on the drug in just two months.
Following Perry’s death, the accused individuals attempted to erase evidence of their crimes. One suspect reportedly instructed Sangha to delete messages, while another expressed confidence about being “protected” from legal consequences. Messages revealed that they employed coded terms for ketamine, referring to it as “Dr Pepper” or “bots.” Dr. Plasencia is accused of falsifying medical records to disguise the illegitimacy of the drugs provided to Perry and is also linked to a prior overdose case in 2019 involving another victim.
Perry’s assistant, Kenneth Iwamasa, who discovered the actor’s lifeless body, was also responsible for injecting him with ketamine. Despite having no formal medical training, he administered over 20 shots of the drug in the days leading up to Perry’s death, which occurred after he injected the actor multiple times on the day he died. Iwamasa has been charged with conspiracy to distribute ketamine resulting in death and has reportedly pleaded guilty.
Perry had long been candid about his battles with addiction, detailing his struggles in his 2022 memoir. He expressed hope that his transparency would serve as an inspiration to others facing similar issues. The recently established Matthew Perry Foundation aims to continue this legacy of helping those in need. Federal authorities believe that the revelations from this case may aid in preventing future tragedies, aligning with Perry’s wish to support others in their struggles with addiction.