News Summary
Dr. Salvador Plasencia, a physician from California, admitted guilt to distributing ketamine illegally, highlighting connections to Matthew Perry’s death. The court proceedings revealed Plasencia admits to injecting Perry without legitimate medical purpose. Facing up to 40 years in prison, he plans to surrender his medical license. Multiple co-defendants are also involved, including a woman accused of supplying the ketamine leading to Perry’s overdose. This case emphasizes the critical issues surrounding illegal drug distribution and its severe consequences.
Los Angeles, California — Dr. Salvador Plasencia Pleads Guilty to Distributing Ketamine Linked to Matthew Perry’s Death
On July 23, 2025, in U.S. District Court in Los Angeles, Dr. Salvador Plasencia, a California-based physician, pleaded guilty to four counts of illegal distribution of ketamine. This development is part of a broader investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death of actor Matthew Perry in October 2023.
Details of the Guilty Plea and Legal Proceedings
During the hearing, Plasencia appeared emotional, responding affirmatively to the judge’s questions regarding his involvement in providing ketamine. He admitted to injecting Perry with ketamine at multiple locations, including his private residence and a parked vehicle, acknowledging that his actions were not for legitimate medical purposes. Plasencia faces a maximum sentence of up to 40 years in prison but will remain free on bond until his sentencing, scheduled for December 3, 2025.
The defendant also plans to surrender his medical license within 30 to 45 days following his plea, signaling a possible end to his medical career amid ongoing legal proceedings. Court records reveal that Plasencia had operated an urgent care clinic and obtained ketamine from another doctor, Mark Chavez, based in San Diego.
Connection to Matthew Perry’s Overdose
Matthew Perry, known for his role on the hit sitcom “Friends,” was 54 years old when he was found unresponsive in his jacuzzi on October 28, 2023. His death was attributed primarily to the acute effects of ketamine, with contributing factors including drowning and underlying coronary artery disease.
Investigations established that Perry’s substance use history was extensive, publicly acknowledging struggles with addiction over the years. The death was ruled an overdose, with evidence indicating Perry had acquired a substantial amount of ketamine, costing approximately $4,500, from individuals connected to the case.
Legal Charges and Involvement of Co-Defendants
Beyond Plasencia, four other individuals have been charged or have entered guilty pleas related to the incident. Among them, three have already pleaded guilty, including another medical professional associated with the case.
The fifth defendant, Jasveen Sangha, commonly referred to as the “ketamine queen,” is accused of supplying the specific dose that contributed to Perry’s death. Sangha has pleaded not guilty; her trial is scheduled for August 2025.
Evidence of Intent and Additional Details
Evidence collected during the investigation suggests that Plasencia texted Chavez about Perry, expressing a desire to profit from the actor’s drug dependency. The case highlights concerns about the illegal sale and distribution of ketamine outside regulated medical environments.
Plasencia’s clinic reportedly required patients to sign waivers that addressed legal allegations against him, although these measures did not prevent the illegal distribution of the drug. Prosecutors emphasize that Plasencia’s actions went beyond legitimate medical practices, involving substantial charges and financial transactions.
Statements and Reactions
During court proceedings, Plasencia’s attorney described his client as “profoundly remorseful” for his role in the incident, underscoring the broader issues surrounding the unregulated at-home ketamine industry. The case raises ongoing questions about oversight and safety protocols in the distribution of controlled substances intended for medical use.
Summary
This case marks a significant step in the legal response to the circumstances surrounding Matthew Perry’s overdose, illustrating the serious consequences of illegal drug distribution. As Plasencia awaits sentencing in December, the broader investigation continues to unfold, with additional charges and potential revelations anticipated in the coming months.
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HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- ABC7 News
- ABC News
- Los Angeles Times
- Reuters
- Google Search: Matthew Perry ketamine case
- Encyclopedia Britannica: ketamine
Author: STAFF HERE WASHINGTON DC
WASHINGTON DC STAFF WRITER The WASHINGTON DC STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREWashingtonDC.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Washington, DC, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and regional news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the National Cherry Blossom Festival, Kennedy Center Honors, and the Washington Auto Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Washington Board of Trade and Destination DC, plus leading businesses in government contracting and technology that power the local economy such as Lockheed Martin and Amazon. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into the dynamic landscape of the Washington metropolitan area.
