A U.S. doctor has pleaded guilty to distributing ketamine to Matthew Perry before the actor’s overdose death. Sentencing set for December 3.
Doctor Admits Guilt in Ketamine Supply to Matthew Perry
Dr. Salvador Plasencia, a 43-year-old physician, has pleaded guilty to illegally supplying ketamine to Canadian-American actor Matthew Perry just weeks before the Friends star died from an overdose. The plea was entered Wednesday in a federal courtroom in Los Angeles.
Charges Connected to Actor’s Tragic Death
The charges stem from Perry’s death on October 28, 2023, which was ruled a result of acute ketamine toxicity. Plasencia became the fourth of five individuals charged in connection with the actor’s death to enter a guilty plea. Prosecutors allege he provided Perry with large quantities of the powerful anesthetic, which is increasingly used off-label to treat depression.
Court Hearing Confirms Drug Distribution
During the hearing before Judge Sherilyn Peace Garnett, Plasencia admitted to four counts of distributing ketamine. Although he initially pleaded not guilty, the California-based doctor reversed his stance under a plea deal that saw prosecutors drop several additional charges, including falsifying records.
Plasencia admitted that after one injection caused Perry’s blood pressure to spike, he still left behind more doses for the actor’s assistant to administer.
Sentence Could Reach 40 Years, But Likely Less
Although the charges carry a maximum sentence of 40 years in prison, prosecutors hinted that Plasencia may receive a lighter penalty. He remains free on bond and will be sentenced on December 3, 2025. Plasencia also agreed to surrender his medical license.
His lawyer, Debra White, stated: “Dr. Plasencia is profoundly remorseful. He accepts full responsibility and hopes this case prompts better oversight in at-home ketamine treatment.”
Implications for Medical Practice
Plasencia is not accused of providing the fatal dose but did supply Perry with ketamine through unlawful channels. Court filings reveal that he used another doctor, Mark Chavez, to obtain the drugs and discussed exploiting Perry for money in text messages.
The plea deal signals a larger federal effort to scrutinize the growing off-label ketamine industry. Perry, who battled addiction for decades, was especially vulnerable. His regular physician had reportedly limited his access to the drug before Perry turned to outside sources.
Ongoing Investigation Targets Final Suspect
Only one co-defendant remains: Jasveen Sangha, a suspected drug dealer known as the “Ketamine Queen,” who allegedly sold Perry the lethal dose. Her trial is scheduled for next month. She has pleaded not guilty.
Three other individuals — Perry’s assistant, a close friend, and another doctor — have already agreed to plead guilty in exchange for cooperation. None have been sentenced yet.
Canadian Fans and Legacy
Matthew Perry, who held dual Canadian and American citizenship, remains a beloved figure in Canada. Born in Massachusetts but raised in Ottawa, he rose to international fame as Chandler Bing in Friends and was known for candidly speaking about his long struggle with substance abuse.
His death reignited discussions in Canada and the U.S. about addiction, celebrity vulnerability, and the ethical responsibilities of medical professionals.
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