Five individuals have been indicted in connection with the overdose death of actor Matthew Perry from a ketamine overdose in October 2023. The charges were announced by U.S. Attorney Martin Estrada, who stated that the defendants exploited Perry’s addiction issues for financial gain, fully aware that their actions were unethical.

Dr. Salvador Plasencia, a Santa Monica-based doctor known as “Dr. P,” was one of the accused. He faces charges including conspiracy to distribute ketamine, distribution of ketamine, and falsifying documents related to the investigation. Plasencia allegedly used coded language to discuss drug deals and facilitated the transfer of drugs to Perry’s assistant, Kenneth Iwamasa.

Jasveen Sangha, also known as the “Ketamine Queen,” is accused of being a drug dealer whose residence in North Hollywood served as a distribution point for the ketamine that led to Perry’s death. She faces various charges related to ketamine distribution and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and ketamine.

Kenneth Iwamasa, Perry’s live-in assistant, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute ketamine causing death. Iwamasa administered ketamine injections to Perry without any medical training, and found the actor deceased in his home.

Dr. Mark Chavez, a San Diego physician, agreed to plead guilty to conspiracy to distribute ketamine. He allegedly obtained ketamine by fraudulent means and sold it to Plasencia, who then distributed it to Iwamasa. Chavez falsified statements regarding the use of the drug.

Erik Fleming, a friend of Perry’s, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute ketamine and distribution of ketamine resulting in death. Fleming obtained ketamine from Sangha and supplied it to Iwamasa for Perry’s use, including handing over 25 vials just days before the actor’s passing.

The accused individuals face possible prison sentences ranging from 10 years to life, with charges related to the distribution and possession of ketamine causing death. The legal proceedings shed light on the tragic circumstances surrounding Matthew Perry’s overdose and the illicit drug network involved.