News Summary
Dr. Salvador Plasencia has pleaded guilty to four counts of distributing ketamine linked to actor Matthew Perry’s accidental death. He has agreed to surrender his medical license and awaits sentencing, facing up to 40 years in prison. The case highlights significant violations of medical ethics within an underground ketamine distribution network. As the investigation unfolds, it raises urgent questions regarding medical accountability and the growing issues of substance misuse in mental health treatment.
Los Angeles — Dr. Salvador Plasencia has pleaded guilty to four counts of distribution of ketamine in connection with the untimely death of actor Matthew Perry. The plea was entered during a hearing on July 23, 2025, where Plasencia admitted his guilt regarding his medical decisions related to Perry’s treatment. He expressed profound remorse for his actions and indicated his willingness to accept full responsibility.
In a move that underscores his acknowledgment of wrongdoing, Plasencia has agreed to voluntarily surrender his medical license, recognizing his failure to safeguard Perry’s health. Following his guilty plea, he remains out on bond while awaiting sentencing, which is scheduled for December 3, 2025. He faces a maximum sentence of 40 years in prison, with each count carrying a penalty of up to 10 years and potential fines totaling $2 million.
Perry died on October 28, 2023, from acute effects of ketamine leading to drowning, with his death officially ruled accidental. The investigation into his death began several months later, driven by concerns surrounding the circumstances of his substance use.
In August 2024, Plasencia was among five individuals charged in connection with Perry’s death. Notably, Kenneth Iwamasa, who was Perry’s live-in assistant, has already pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute ketamine resulting in death. Erik Fleming, identified as a supplier, also admitted to providing the fatal ketamine and has pleaded guilty to multiple related charges. Another medical professional, Dr. Mark Chavez, similarly pleaded guilty to drug distribution offenses. Conversely, Jasveen Sangha, known as the “Ketamine Queen,” has pleaded not guilty and is set for trial in August.
Plasencia was reported to have been involved in an underground network tied to the distribution of ketamine, which had a direct link to the circumstances surrounding Perry’s death. There are indications that Perry, despite undergoing therapy for depression and anxiety, sought out ketamine illegally. It was reported that Plasencia and another supplier were found to have made derogatory remarks in text messages about the amount Perry was willing to pay for ketamine. Evidence suggests that Perry paid Plasencia as much as $55,000 for ketamine in the month preceding his death.
Involvement from Iwamasa was marked by directions he received from Plasencia on how to administer the drug to Perry, despite Iwamasa lacking any medical training. This has raised significant ethical concerns regarding medical practices, particularly in the context of at-home treatments.
Federal prosecutors have articulated that the actions of those charged in connection with Perry’s death represent serious violations of medical ethics. The prosecution aims to utilize this case as a critical warning to both medical professionals and drug dealers about the dire consequences of engaging in such illegal practices. It is anticipated that the outcome of this case may usher in tighter regulations on the at-home ketamine industry, highlighting the ongoing issues of substance misuse and improper medical practices.
The events surrounding Matthew Perry’s death have brought to light troubling issues related to illegal drug distribution and the responsibilities of medical professionals. As the case continues, it is poised to impact not only those directly involved but potentially reshape the landscape of treatment for individuals struggling with addiction and mental health challenges.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Doctor Pleads Guilty to Ketamine Distribution Linked to Actor’s Death
Additional Resources
- The Guardian
- Wikipedia: Ketamine
- CNN
- Google Search: Matthew Perry death ketamine
- ABC News
- Google Scholar: Ketamine Ethics
- Al Jazeera
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Medicine
- Boston.com
- Google News: Matthew Perry ketamine
Author: STAFF HERE LOS ANGELES WRITER
LOS ANGELES STAFF WRITER The LOS ANGELES STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERELosAngeles.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Los Angeles, Los Angeles County, and beyond, specializing in "news you can use" with coverage of product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates, while delivering top reporting on high-value events like the Academy Awards, LA Auto Show, and Los Angeles Marathon, extending coverage to key organizations such as the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce and the Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board, plus leading businesses in entertainment and technology like Warner Bros. and SpaceX, and as part of the broader HERE network including HEREAnaheim.com , HERECostaMesa.com , HEREHuntingtonBeach.com , and HERESantaAna.com , providing comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape. HERE Anaheim HERE Beverly Hills HERE Coronado HERE Costa Mesa HERE Hollywood HERE Huntington Beach HERE Long Beach HERE Los Angeles HERE Mission Viejo HERE San Diego HERE Santa Ana
