Matthew Perry, the beloved actor who played Chandler Bing in the hit US sitcom Friends, died on October 28 last year at the age of 54 from the acute effects of ketamine. An investigation revealed a shocking underground criminal network that took advantage of Perry’s addiction to the drug, resulting in his tragic downfall. The first of five individuals charged in connection with Perry’s death, Erik Fleming, has pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute ketamine and distribution of ketamine resulting in death. Fleming sourced the ketamine from Jasveen Sangha, known as the “ketamine queen,” who allegedly supplied the dose that ultimately took Perry’s life.
The other defendants, Salvador Plasencia, a doctor, and Kenneth Iwamasa, Perry’s live-in assistant, also admitted to their roles in the actor’s death. Plasencia allegedly used Iwamasa to distribute ketamine to Perry from September to October last year, and Iwamasa repeatedly injected Perry with the drug without medical training. Mark Chavez, another doctor, also admitted to conspiring to distribute ketamine following Perry’s death.
Matthew Perry (Image via Getty)
Perry had been seeking treatment for depression and anxiety when he became addicted to intravenous ketamine. He had previously been open about his struggles with substance abuse and addiction, setting up a sober living facility for men with similar issues. His mother, Suzanne Morrison, recently revealed that Perry had a premonition about his death on one of their last conversations. She stated that he said, “I love you so much and I’m so happy to be with you now,” which she interpreted as a premonition about his impending death.
Perry’s death has left a lasting impact on his loved ones and fans, and his foundation has been set up to help those struggling with addiction. The tragic events surrounding his death serve as a stark reminder of the dangers of addiction and the importance of seeking help when struggling with substance abuse issues.
