Two individuals, Jasveen Sangha, known as the “Ketamine Queen,” and Dr. Salvador Plasencia, one of Matthew Perry’s physicians, are scheduled to appear in federal court on Wednesday in connection with the actor’s fatal overdose last year.
Sangha and Plasencia, who have maintained their innocence, are among five people charged in relation to the “Friends” star’s death. Prosecutors have uncovered text messages revealing Dr. Plasencia’s intention to become Perry’s primary source for ketamine, with the doctor even administering the substance to Perry in a public parking lot just weeks before his passing.
According to authorities, Dr. Plasencia received $55,000 in cash from Perry for ketamine in the two months leading up to his death at the age of 54. If convicted, Dr. Plasencia faces a maximum sentence of 120 years, while Sangha could receive a life sentence.
Sangha allegedly operated a narcotics operation from her north Hollywood apartment, earning a reputation as a “celebrity drug dealer” who boasted about her relationships with famous clients.
Three other individuals, including Perry’s friend Erik Fleming, personal assistant Kenneth Iwamasa, and Dr. Mark Chavez, have pleaded guilty in connection with the case.
In the days leading up to his overdose, Perry received at least 27 shots of ketamine, with Sangha accused of providing the fatal doses. On the day of his death, Iwamasa administered three injections of the substance before leaving to run errands. Upon his return, he found Perry unresponsive in the jacuzzi and called 911, but paramedics were unable to revive him.
In the aftermath of Perry’s death, Fleming sent a text message to Sangha, stating that he believed everyone involved was “protected” and that he had only dealt with Perry’s assistant, who he claimed was the “enabler.”
Ketamine, a powerful anesthetic, is a chemical cousin of the illicit substance PCP and can cause hallucinations, respiratory problems, and cardiac issues. Most ketamine distributed illegally in the United States is stolen or diverted from legitimate sources, such as veterinary clinics, and often spreads through social networks.
