Matthew Perry's Death: Major Criminals Sentenced in Actor's Ketamine Overdose Case
Federal investigators have concluded a major case involving the overdose death of beloved actor Matthew Perry, uncovering a criminal network that supplied him with high doses of ketamine. In his final weeks, Perry was being injected with ketamine up to six times daily, leading to his accidental death in October 2023.
The 'Ketamine Queen' Faces Significant Prison Time
Jasveen Sangha, 42, known as the "Ketamine Queen" of North Hollywood, appeared in a Los Angeles federal court for sentencing on Wednesday, April 8, 2026. She pleaded guilty to multiple felony counts, including distribution of ketamine resulting in death, and faces up to 15 years in prison. Prosecutors described her as a major drug supplier who used her home as a distribution hub for high-end clients.
Sangha was the last of five defendants to reach a plea deal in a federal investigation that exposed a "broad underground criminal network" responsible for supplying Perry with the powerful anesthetic. She admitted to selling 25 vials of ketamine, including the fatal dose, and acknowledged her actions caused Perry's death, making her eligible for the harshest penalty.
How Matthew Perry Died
Matthew Perry was found unresponsive in the hot tub at his Pacific Palisades home on October 28, 2023. The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner ruled his death an accident caused by the "acute effects of ketamine," with contributing factors including drowning, coronary artery disease, and buprenorphine effects. Investigators found ketamine levels in his system equivalent to general anesthesia, far exceeding typical outpatient therapy doses.
While Perry had been open about his addiction struggles and was reportedly clean from traditional narcotics, he was undergoing legal ketamine infusion therapy for depression and anxiety at the time of his death.
Other Key Defendants in the Case
Dr. Salvador Plasencia: Known as "Dr. P," he was sentenced to 2.5 years in prison for illegally selling ketamine to Perry. Prosecutors highlighted text messages where he mocked Perry's addiction.
Dr. Mark Chavez: He admitted to obtaining ketamine through fraudulent prescriptions and false statements to distributors. Chavez was sentenced to eight months of home detention.
Kenneth Iwamasa: Perry's long-time live-in assistant, with no medical training, administered the fatal injections. He pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute ketamine causing death and awaits sentencing.
Erik Fleming: An acquaintance who acted as a middleman, coordinating sales and transporting cash and drugs. He pleaded guilty to conspiracy and distribution charges, with sentencing pending.
Prosecutors' Arguments and Family Impact
Prosecutors argued Sangha showed a lack of remorse, continuing to sell drugs even after learning of previous customer deaths, including Los Angeles resident Cody McLaury in 2019. Members of Perry's family delivered victim impact statements in court, highlighting the emotional toll of his death.
The case concludes over two years of investigation, shedding light on the dangers of illicit ketamine distribution and the criminal networks exploiting vulnerable individuals.
