News Summary
Dr. Salvador Plasencia has pleaded guilty to four counts of distributing ketamine, admitting his role in the treatment decisions leading to actor Matthew Perry’s death. His attorney stated he is remorseful and has agreed to surrender his medical license. Plasencia faces up to 40 years in prison, while other individuals involved also face charges related to Perry’s tragic passing. This case highlights the critical issues surrounding illegal drug distribution and the responsibilities of medical professionals.
Los Angeles – Dr. Salvador Plasencia has pleaded guilty to four counts of distribution of ketamine, admitting his involvement in the treatment decisions that led to the death of actor Matthew Perry. The plea was entered during a court hearing on July 23, 2025. Plasencia’s actions contributed to the illegal distribution of the drug that resulted in Perry’s tragic passing on October 28, 2023.
During the proceedings, Plasencia’s attorney conveyed that his client is “profoundly remorseful” and accepts responsibility for his actions. In recognition of his wrongdoing, Plasencia has agreed to voluntarily surrender his medical license, signaling an acknowledgment of his failure to safeguard Perry’s well-being. He will remain free on bond until he is sentenced, with a hearing slated for December 3, 2025. Plasencia is facing a maximum sentence of 40 years in prison, with each count carrying a potential 10-year penalty, along with a possible fine of $2 million.
Perry’s death was ruled accidental, attributed to the acute effects of ketamine along with subsequent drowning. His death prompted an investigation by the Los Angeles Police Department, which began months after the incident. As part of a broader investigation, Plasencia, alongside four other individuals, was charged in connection to Perry’s death in August 2024.
Among the individuals charged was Kenneth Iwamasa, Perry’s live-in assistant, who pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute ketamine causing death. Erik Fleming, who admitted to supplying the ketamine responsible for Perry’s death, pleaded guilty to several counts, while another accused, Dr. Mark Chavez, also entered a guilty plea to drug distribution charges. A fourth individual, Jasveen Sangha, referred to as the “Ketamine Queen,” has pleaded not guilty and will face trial in August.
During the investigation, it was revealed that Plasencia was part of an underground network responsible for the ketamine distribution that led to Perry’s death. Text messages indicated that Plasencia and another supplier belittled Perry’s struggles and mocked the sum he was willing to pay for ketamine. Furthermore, it was discovered that Plasencia had improperly instructed Iwamasa on how to administer the drug to Perry, despite Iwamasa lacking any medical training.
Reports suggest that Perry sought ketamine illegally, even as he was undergoing therapy for depression and anxiety. In the month before his death, it is alleged that Perry paid Plasencia up to $55,000 for the drug, highlighting the severe implications of the combination of mental health struggles and illegal drug acquisition. Federal prosecutors have characterized the actions of those involved as serious violations of medical ethics, stressing that such conduct undermines public trust in the healthcare system.
Plasencia’s case is notable in the ongoing dynamic around the regulation of the at-home ketamine industry, and experts foresee that the repercussions from this incident may lead to enhanced oversight. Legal authorities view the case as a salient warning to both medical professionals and drug dealers regarding the severe consequences associated with the misuse of their positions and resources in relation to controlled substances.
The ramifications of these legal proceedings continue to resonate within the healthcare community, reinforcing the need for strict adherence to ethical standards in medical practices, especially concerning controlled substances. The tragic loss of Matthew Perry serves as a critical reminder of the real dangers associated with illegal drug use and the responsibilities upheld by those in the medical field.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Doctor Pleads Guilty to Ketamine Distribution in High-Profile Case
Additional Resources
- The Guardian
- Wikipedia: Ketamine
- CNN
- Google Search: Matthew Perry death ketamine
- ABC News
- Google Scholar: Ketamine Ethics
- Al Jazeera
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Medicine
- Boston.com
- Google News: Matthew Perry ketamine
Author: STAFF HERE INDIANAPOLIS WRITER
INDIANAPOLIS STAFF WRITER The INDIANAPOLIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREIndianapolis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Indianapolis, Marion County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Indianapolis 500, Indy Jazz Fest, and the Indiana State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Indy Chamber and Visit Indy, plus leading businesses in motorsports and healthcare that power the local economy such as Indianapolis Motor Speedway and IU Health. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Indiana's dynamic landscape.
