Doctor Charged in Matthew Perry's Death Makes Plea Decision

A Southern California doctor is expected to plead guilty to distributing the fatal dose of ketamine that contributed to the 2023 overdose death of actor Matthew Perry.

People reported that according to a plea agreement filed in Los Angeles on June 16, Dr. Salvador Plasencia, known as "Dr. P.," will plead guilty to four counts of ketamine distribution. 

Each count carries a potential 10-year sentence, meaning the 70-year-old physician could face up to 40 years in federal prison.

Perry, best known for his role as Chandler Bing on Friends, died on Oct. 28, 2023, after he was found unresponsive in a hot tub at his Los Angeles home. His autopsy confirmed the cause of death as the "acute effects of ketamine," with secondary factors including coronary artery disease and the effects of buprenorphine, a medication often used to treat opioid addiction.

Plasencia is one of five people charged in the criminal investigation into Perry’s death. Federal prosecutors say the group exploited Perry’s vulnerabilities and saw him as a high-paying customer. 

According to the Department of Justice, Plasencia texted a fellow physician, "I wonder how much this moron will pay," while arranging a ketamine deal for the actor.

Other defendants have already entered plea deals, including Perry’s personal assistant and an alleged drug dealer. 

Only one person—Jasveen Sangha, allegedly known as "The Ketamine Queen"—has refused to plead and is set to face trial in August.

Investigators say Sangha and the others not only distributed ketamine illegally but also tried to erase their digital tracks after Perry’s death. In fact, one message reportedly read, "Delete all our messages" showing possible intent to get rid of any evidence tying them to the situation.

The plea agreement marks a turning point in the high-profile case that's stunned fans and reignited conversations about prescription drug abuse and celebrity exploitation.