First Person Faces Sentencing for Matthew Perry’s Fatal Ketamine Overdose
A doctor involved in the tragic overdose death of actor Matthew Perry is set to face sentencing. Dr. Salvador Plasencia admitted to distributing ketamine to Perry shortly before the actor’s demise in October 2023. This sentencing marks the first legal action against individuals linked to Perry’s fatal overdose.
Details of the Case Involving Matthew Perry’s Overdose
Dr. Plasencia, who operated an urgent care clinic in Malibu, pleaded guilty to four counts of ketamine distribution. He was one of two medical practitioners who provided this substance to the actor. Plasencia faces a maximum penalty of ten years in federal prison per count, with his sentencing scheduled for 11 a.m. local time in Los Angeles federal court.
Perry, aged 54, was found unresponsive in a jacuzzi at his home in Los Angeles. An autopsy confirmed that he died from acute ketamine effects. Prior to reaching a plea agreement, Plasencia was preparing for a trial set in August.
Prosecutors’ Recommendations and Plea Agreement
The government has suggested a sentence of 36 months in prison. They argue that Plasencia exploited Perry’s medical vulnerabilities for financial gain. Evidence included messages where Plasencia referred to Perry in derogatory terms while discussing payment for ketamine.
Perry’s personal assistant, Kenneth Iwamasa, also faced charges related to the distribution of the ketamine that led to Perry’s death. Iwamasa admitted to administering the drug on the day of Perry’s passing.
- Key Dates:
- September 30, 2023: Plasencia starts providing ketamine to Perry.
- October 12, 2023: Plasencia administers ketamine before Perry’s death.
- October 28, 2023: Matthew Perry dies from a ketamine overdose.
Defense Arguments and Consequences Faced by Plasencia
In response to the prosecution’s claims, Plasencia’s attorneys argued for a minimal sentence, citing the personal and professional repercussions he has already endured. They highlighted that he lost his medical license and faced intense public scrutiny as critical factors in his defense.
Plasencia expressed remorse, acknowledging the severity of his mistakes. His team, however, stressed that he was not treating Perry at the time of his death and did not administer the fatal ketamine dose.
Other Defendants in Matthew Perry’s Case
Several others are also facing charges related to Perry’s overdose. Iwamasa pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute ketamine causing death. Additionally, two drug dealers, Erik Fleming and Jasveen Sangha, were involved in supplying key quantities of ketamine to Perry.
- Sentencing Dates for Other Defendants:
- Chavez: December 17, 2025
- Iwamasa: January 14, 2026
- Fleming: January 7, 2026
- Sangha: February 25, 2026
This ongoing case highlights critical issues surrounding substance abuse and the accountability of healthcare professionals in treatment practices. The outcome of these proceedings may serve as a significant point of reflection in the medical community.
