LOS ANGELES, USA – A California-based physician, Dr Salvador Plasencia, has pleaded guilty to illegally supplying ketamine to beloved Friends actor Matthew Perry, weeks before the actor’s untimely death in October 2023.
Plasencia admitted in court that he administered the powerful drug at Perry’s home and even inside a parked car, despite being fully aware of the actor’s long-standing battle with addiction. The plea covers four federal counts of illegal ketamine distribution, potentially carrying a prison sentence of up to 40 years and fines of $2 million.
He is the fourth of five individuals to plead guilty in the high-profile case that has exposed a troubling underground network catering to vulnerable celebrities under the guise of mental health care. The only remaining defendant, dubbed the “Ketamine Queen,” faces trial next month.
Perry, aged 54, died of acute ketamine toxicity and drowning, as confirmed by the coroner. Investigators recovered 20 vials of ketamine linked to Plasencia’s treatments. Prosecutors also revealed text messages showing the doctor joked about overcharging Perry, further fuelling outrage.
Plasencia will surrender his medical licence and is expected to receive a lighter sentence when sentencing is announced later this year.
This story has been reported by PakTribune. All rights reserved.