Five people were arrested in connection with Matthew Perry’s October 2023 death
The last known words of Matthew Perry were spoken to his assistant, who has now pleaded guilty to his role in the actor’s ketamine death.
“Shoot me up with a big one,” the Friends star told Kenneth Iwamasa, per a plea agreement with federal authorities in which Iwamasa pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute ketamine causing death.
The Department of Justice said in a release that Iwamasa, who was not medically trained to administer ketamine, “repeatedly” injected Perry with ketamine.
Perry was was found dead, face down, in his jacuzzi on Oct. 28, 2023. The 54-year-old’s cause of his death was determined to be “acute effects of ketamine,” an autopsy revealed last December.
Iwamasa was one of five people who were arrested and charged with drug-related offenses in connection with Perry’s death. The final injection was the third of the day administered to Perry by Iwamasa, according to the assistant’s plea agreement.
Federal authorities alleged in a press release that the people charged after Perry’s death exploited his addiction for their own financial gain despite knowing their actions were negatively impacting his well-being.
Perry, who had been outspoken about his battles with addiction, had recovered before he relapsed months prior to his death, per the DOJ.
“In the end, these defendants were more interested in profiting off Mr. Perry than caring for his well being,” U.S. Attorney Martin Estrada said when announcing the charges on Thursday.
The others arrested were Jasveen Sangha — who authorities allege was known as the “The Ketamine Queen” — Dr. Salvador Plasencia, Erik Fleming and Dr. Mark Chavez, per the DOJ.
Fleming pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute ketamine and one count of distribution of ketamine resulting in death, per authorities, who said Chavez is expected to plead guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute ketamine.
Sangha and Plasencia have not yet entered pleas. It’s not clear if they have retained attorneys to speak on their behalf.
If you or someone you know is struggling with substance abuse, please contact the SAMHSA helpline at 1-800-662-HELP
The tragic death of Matthew Perry in October 2023 shocked the world, shedding light on the dangers of addiction and the lengths to which some individuals will go for personal gain. Five individuals, including Perry’s assistant Kenneth Iwamasa, were arrested in connection with his death, with Iwamasa pleading guilty to distributing ketamine that ultimately led to Perry’s passing.The Department of Justice revealed that Iwamasa, who was not trained to administer ketamine, injected Perry multiple times with the dangerous drug. Perry, a beloved actor known for his role on Friends, was found lifeless in his jacuzzi due to the acute effects of ketamine. This disturbing chain of events highlights the destructive impact of addiction and the devastating consequences it can have.Federal authorities uncovered a scheme in which the individuals arrested took advantage of Perry’s addiction for financial gain, disregarding his well-being in the process. Despite Perry’s previous battles with addiction and subsequent recovery, he tragically fell back into its grip in the months leading up to his death.The arrests of Jasveen Sangha, Dr. Salvador Plasencia, Erik Fleming, and Dr. Mark Chavez further illustrate the extent of the operation that contributed to Perry’s demise. Authorities allege that Sangha, dubbed as “The Ketamine Queen,” played a significant role in the distribution of the drug, while Plasencia and Chavez are also implicated in the conspiracy.The actions of these individuals not only demonstrate a blatant disregard for Perry’s life but also underscore the importance of addressing substance abuse and addiction as serious public health issues. It serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences that can arise from the exploitation of vulnerable individuals for personal gain.As we reflect on this tragedy, it is crucial to prioritize support for those struggling with substance abuse and to seek help for ourselves or loved ones facing similar challenges. The SAMHSA helpline is available for those in need of assistance, offering resources and guidance for individuals seeking recovery and support.Let us use this moment to raise awareness, advocate for those in need, and work towards a society that values the well-being and recovery of all its members. Together, we can turn the tragedy of Matthew Perry’s death into a catalyst for positive change and greater support for those battling addiction.
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Source: Los Angeles Times (edited)
