The consequences of medical ethics violations in drug distribution.
Dr. Salvador Plasencia has pleaded guilty to charges of ketamine distribution tied to the overdose death of actor Matthew Perry. The plea highlights serious ethical violations in the medical community. Plasencia will surrender his medical license and faces significant prison time while the case raises concerns about the illegal distribution of ketamine, particularly in treating mental health issues. Other individuals involved have also pleaded guilty, igniting a larger conversation about drug practices among medical professionals.
Los Angeles, CA – Dr. Salvador Plasencia has pleaded guilty to four counts of distribution of ketamine in connection with the death of actor Matthew Perry, who died from an overdose of the drug in 2023. The plea was entered during a court hearing on July 23, 2025, where Plasencia expressed his guilt over decisions made regarding the treatment of Perry, who was known for his role in the television series “Friends.” His case highlights serious ethical violations within the medical community.
Following the guilty plea, Plasencia’s attorney stated that he is “profoundly remorseful” and is accepting full responsibility for his actions. As part of his acceptance of guilt, Plasencia will voluntarily surrender his medical license, acknowledging his failure to protect Perry. Currently, he remains free on bond until a sentencing hearing scheduled for December 3, 2025. He faces a potential maximum sentence of 40 years in prison, with each count carrying a possible sentence of 10 years, as well as a fine of up to $2 million.
Perry tragically died on October 28, 2023, from what the authorities ruled was an accidental drowning caused by the acute effects of ketamine. Investigations into his death led to the involvement of the Los Angeles Police Department, which opened a case several months later. In August 2024, Plasencia, along with four other individuals, was charged in connection with Perry’s death, igniting a much wider discussion about ketamine distribution practices.
Alongside Plasencia, Kenneth Iwamasa, Perry’s live-in assistant, has pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute ketamine leading to death. Erik Fleming, another individual involved, admitted to supplying the ketamine that ultimately contributed to Perry’s demise and has also pleaded guilty to multiple counts. Dr. Mark Chavez, another medical professional implicated in the case, has similarly pleaded guilty to drug distribution charges. Only Jasveen Sangha, referred to as the “Ketamine Queen,” has entered a not guilty plea and is set to go to trial in August 2026.
Investigators discovered that Plasencia had connections to an underground network of drug sellers and suppliers who were responsible for illegal ketamine distribution. These findings raised alarming questions about the practices surrounding the at-home use of ketamine, particularly for treating mental health issues. Reports also indicated that Perry was seeking ketamine through illicit means, despite undergoing therapy for depression and anxiety. Communication between Plasencia and suppliers reportedly included mockery of how much Perry was willing to pay for the drug, underscoring a troubling disregard for medical ethics.
In a particularly concerning aspect of the case, Plasencia reportedly instructed Iwamasa on how to administer ketamine to Perry even though Iwamasa did not possess any medical training. It has been alleged that Perry paid Plasencia up to $55,000 for ketamine in the month leading up to his death. Federal prosecutors have emphasized that the actions of those charged represent serious violations of medical ethics and regulations concerning controlled substances.
The ramifications of this case extend beyond the individuals involved, sparking conversations about the need for stricter oversight of the at-home ketamine industry and the interactions between medical professionals and patients seeking illegal substances. The prosecution views this case as a firm warning to both medical practitioners and drug dealers regarding the significant consequences of actions taken in violation of medical ethics and legal standards.
Doctor Pleads Guilty in Ketamine Distribution Case Linked to Actor’s Death
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