Five Arrested in Matthew Perry’s Death Probe: Allegations of Ketamine Network, Cover-Ups, and Second Death
The investigation into Matthew Perry’s death has revealed startling details, including a sprawling ketamine distribution network, alleged cover-ups, and connections to another fatal overdose. The actor, known for his role as Chandler Bing on *Friends*, was found dead in his Los Angeles home last October, initially thought to be an accident. However, a coroner’s report indicating dangerously high levels of ketamine in his system led to a broader investigation.
Here are five key revelations from the probe:
1. Ketamine Queen” and Drug Empire
Jasveen Sangha, dubbed the “Ketamine Queen,” is accused of supplying the drugs that led to Perry’s death. Prosecutors claim she sold Perry 50 vials of ketamine for around $11,000 and operated out of her North Hollywood home, which was allegedly a major drug distribution center. Over 80 vials of ketamine, methamphetamine, cocaine, Xanax, and a handgun were found during a search of her property.
2. Exploitation of Perry’s Addiction
Authorities allege that the defendants, including Dr. Salvador Plasencia and Perry’s assistant Kenneth Iwamasa, exploited Perry’s addiction for profit. Dr. Plasencia is accused of selling ketamine to Perry at inflated prices and instructing Iwamasa on improper administration techniques. Text messages from Dr. Plasencia reportedly revealed a callous attitude toward Perry’s condition.
3. Cover-Up Attempts
After Perry’s death, the defendants allegedly attempted to obscure their involvement. Sangha purportedly instructed a co-conspirator to delete messages, while Dr. Plasencia allegedly falsified medical records. Other defendants, including Eric Fleming and Dr. Mark Chavez, have pleaded guilty to drug-related charges.
4. Connection to Another Death
Investigators discovered that Sangha was also linked to the 2019 overdose death of Cody McLaury, who died after buying ketamine from her. Court documents reveal that Sangha searched online for information about ketamine being listed as a cause of death shortly after McLaury’s death.
5. lwamasa’s Role
Kenneth Iwamasa, Perry’s live-in assistant, was found to have administered more than 20 doses of ketamine to Perry in the days leading up to his death. Iwamasa, who has pleaded guilty to conspiring to distribute ketamine resulting in death, was charged with administering the drug without medical training or proper safety protocols.
Matthew Perry had been candid about his struggles with addiction, hoping his openness would aid others facing similar challenges. The head of the federal Drug Enforcement Administration, Anne Milgram, stated that the case’s exposure could prevent future tragedies and fulfill Perry’s wish to help others.
The investigation continues as the legal proceedings against the accused unfold, with a tentative trial date set for October for those who have pleaded not guilty.