The primary physician involved in the drug overdose case of actor Matthew Perry is anticipated to submit a guilty plea soon, according to statements from the U.S. Justice Department.
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Dr. Salvador Plasencia is set to plead guilty to four counts related to the distribution of ketamine, with a potential maximum sentence of 40 years in federal prison. As stated by the Department, “Justice will take its due course in this tragic case.”
In a turn of events, Mark Chavez, a second physician implicated in the case, entered a guilty plea last October for conspiring to distribute ketamine just weeks before the beloved actor was discovered unresponsive in the hot tub of his Los Angeles residence in 2023.
Throughout his life, Mr. Perry’s well-documented struggles with substance addiction were a persistent challenge; however, his untimely death at the age of 54 left the entertainment world reeling.
According to reports, Dr. Plasencia allegedly acquired ketamine from Chavez and sold it to the American-Canadian actor at significantly inflated prices. “I wonder how much this moron will pay,” Plasencia reportedly texted, a sentiment that underscores the disturbing nature of this case.
In line with the plea agreement released by the Justice Department, Plasencia admitted to visiting Mr. Perry’s home to administer ketamine injections. Over approximately two weeks in the fall of 2023, he allegedly distributed 20 vials of the substance.
Initially, Mr. Perry used ketamine as part of a supervised therapy regime for his depression. However, prosecutors allege that he became addicted to this powerful drug—popular in both therapeutic contexts and nightlife scenes.
The Ongoing Investigation
To date, five individuals have been charged in connection with Mr. Perry’s tragic death. Among them is Jasveen Sangha, referred to as the “Ketamine Queen,” accused of supplying the lethal dose. She has pleaded not guilty.
Additionally, Mr. Perry’s live-in personal assistant and another associate confessed to charges of conspiracy to distribute ketamine last August.
Mr. Perry, best known for his role as Chandler Bing on the iconic television show *Friends*, faced extensive battles with addiction throughout his life. His challenges included a serious drug-related incident in 2018, when he suffered a burst colon that required multiple surgeries.
In his memoir, *Friends, Lovers and the Big Terrible Thing*, published in 2022, Mr. Perry reflected on his journey, revealing, “I have mostly been sober since 2001, save for about 60 or 70 little mishaps.” His candid sharing of personal struggles serves as a testament to the ongoing battle many face with addiction.
This case not only highlights the serious consequences of addiction but also raises important questions about accountability in the healthcare system.
Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times International – Monitoring
