Shocking Turn: Doctor Charged in Matthew Perry’s Death Agrees to Plead Guilty
A Troubling Development in the Matthew Perry Ketamine Case
Dr. Salvador Plasencia, the physician charged with supplying Matthew Perry with ketamine in the month leading up to the beloved Friends star’s tragic overdose, has agreed to plead guilty. Authorities announced this significant development in the Matthew Perry ketamine case on June 16, 2025. They revealed that Plasencia will face four counts of distribution of the drug.
Potential Consequences for Plasencia
Federal prosecutors indicated that the plea carries a maximum sentence of 40 years in prison. Plasencia is expected to enter his plea in the coming weeks. This marks a crucial turn in the Matthew Perry ketamine case that has drawn considerable attention. Notably, he and a woman accused of being a ketamine dealer became the primary targets of the prosecution. This followed after three other defendants, including another doctor, opted to plead guilty in exchange for their cooperation.
Background on the Matthew Perry Overdose Case
Plasencia had scheduled his trial to start in August. However, an email sent to his attorney for comment went unanswered. Matthew Perry’s assistant found him dead on October 28, 2023. The medical examiner ruled ketamine as the primary cause of death. The actor had used the drug through his regular doctor as part of a legal but off-label treatment for depression. Notably, this practice has gained popularity in recent years.
The Chain of Events Leading to Perry’s Death
In the weeks leading up to his death, Perry sought more ketamine than his doctor was willing to prescribe. Court filings reveal that he turned to Plasencia, who allegedly coordinated with another doctor, Mark Chavez, to obtain the drug. Text messages between Plasencia and Chavez indicated a casual attitude toward the situation. For instance, Plasencia reportedly asked, “I wonder how much this moron will pay.” Thus, the Matthew Perry ketamine case deepened as they met in Costa Mesa, California, where they exchanged at least four vials of ketamine.
After selling the drugs to Perry for $4,500, Plasencia allegedly expressed a desire to continue supplying the actor. He aimed to become Perry’s “go-to” for the drug.
Other Defendants in the Matthew Perry Case
While Plasencia stands accused of providing the bulk of Perry’s ketamine in his final weeks, another defendant, Jasmine Sangha, allegedly supplied the dose that ultimately led to the actor’s death. Sangha is also scheduled to go to trial in August. She has pleaded not guilty, making her the only one of the five charged in the Matthew Perry ketamine case who has not entered a plea agreement.
Perry’s Struggles with Addiction
Matthew Perry battled addiction for years, a struggle that began during his time on Friends. He became one of the biggest stars of his generation. He portrayed Chandler Bing alongside Jennifer Aniston, Courteney Cox, Lisa Kudrow, Matt LeBlanc, and David Schwimmer. The show ran for ten seasons from 1994 to 2004 on NBC’s megahit. As we reflect on his legacy, the circumstances surrounding his death and the Matthew Perry ketamine case remind us of the ongoing challenges of addiction and the importance of mental health support.
