Doctors and assistant among five charged in Matthew Perry’s tragic overdose death

Five individuals have been charged in connection with the death of actor Matthew Perry, who tragically passed away from a ketamine overdose in October 2023. The accused include Matthew Perry’s personal assistant, two doctors, and others involved in supplying the drugs that led to his untimely demise.

U.S. Attorney Martin Estrada stated that the defendants "took advantage of Mr. Perry’s addiction issues to enrich themselves," fully aware of the consequences of their actions. The charges followed a thorough investigation into Perry's overdose, leading to serious allegations against all five individuals.

Among those charged is Dr. Plasencia, a Santa Monica physician, who faces multiple counts of conspiracy to distribute ketamine and falsifying records. Commonly referred to as "Dr. P," Plasencia allegedly used encrypted messaging to discuss drug deals, with references to ketamine as "Dr. Pepper" and "cans." He is accused of distributing drugs to Perry through his assistant, Kenneth Iwamasa. Plasencia pleaded not guilty, and his attorney argued that the doctor believed he was acting with good intentions. If convicted, Plasencia faces up to 10 years in prison for each ketamine-related charge and up to 20 years for falsifying records.

Another key figure is Sangha, who allegedly operated a ketamine distribution point from her North Hollywood residence. Known as the "Ketamine Queen" in court documents, she is accused of supplying the drugs that led to Perry’s death. Sangha has been charged with multiple counts of ketamine distribution and remains in custody after pleading not guilty. If convicted, she faces 10 years to life in prison.

Matthew Perry’s personal assistant, Iwamasa, has admitted to administering ketamine to the actor, including on the day of his death. Without medical training, Iwamasa played a significant role in the distribution of the drug and has pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute ketamine, which carries a potential 15-year prison sentence.

San Diego-based Dr. Chavez, who previously ran a ketamine clinic, has agreed to plead guilty to conspiracy charges. Chavez is accused of fraudulently obtaining ketamine and supplying it to Plasencia, who then sold it to Iwamasa. Chavez’s involvement could result in up to 10 years behind bars.

Lastly, Fleming, a friend of Matthew Perry’s, is charged with distributing 50 vials of ketamine to the actor through Iwamasa, including a significant delivery just days before Matthew Perry’s death. Fleming has pleaded guilty to conspiracy and distribution charges and faces a possible 25-year sentence.

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This case has sparked widespread attention, with the defendants facing significant prison time for their involvement in the tragic circumstances that led to Matthew Perry’s death. The investigation highlights the dangers of exploiting individuals struggling with addiction and underscores the consequences of illegal drug distribution.