Doctor Pleads Guilty in Matthew Perry Overdose Case
A significant breakthrough has occurred in the investigation into the tragic death of actor Matthew Perry. One of the doctors involved in the case has pleaded guilty to conspiring to distribute ketamine, a powerful anesthetic.
The Doctor’s Plea
Mark Chavez, a 54-year-old doctor, has reached a plea agreement with prosecutors and is expected to enter a guilty plea in the coming weeks. This marks a significant development in the case, which has seen five people arrested in connection with Perry’s death.
The Investigation
The investigation into Perry’s death began after he was found dead in his backyard hot tub in October 2023. Authorities quickly launched a probe that uncovered a “broad underground criminal network” involved in the distribution of illegal drugs.
Five individuals were indicted in connection with Perry’s death, including two doctors, a drug dealer, and a woman known as “the ketamine queen.” These individuals were accused of various crimes, including conspiracy to distribute ketamine, possession of controlled substances, and maintaining a drug stash house.
The Role of the Doctor
Mark Chavez was one of the two doctors implicated in the case. He is accused of working with another doctor to obtain ketamine, which was then provided to Perry’s assistant, who injected the drug into the actor.
Chavez is also accused of making false representations to a wholesale ketamine distributor and using a phony prescription for ketamine lozenges.
The Other Indictments
In addition to Chavez, four other individuals were indicted in connection with Perry’s death. These individuals include:
- Jasveen Sangha: Known as “the ketamine queen,” Sangha is accused of maintaining a drug stash house where thousands of dollars worth of illegal drugs were found.
- Salvador Plasencia: A doctor who worked with Chavez to obtain ketamine.
- Kenneth Iwamasa: Perry’s assistant, who injected ketamine into the actor.
- Erik Fleming: An associate of Perry’s who was involved in the drug distribution network.
Three of these individuals have already accepted plea deals and are facing lesser charges.
The Cause of Death
According to the medical examiner’s report, Perry died of a lethal dose of ketamine. The drug caused cardiovascular overstimulation and respiratory depression, leading to his death.
The Impact of the Case
The death of Matthew Perry, a beloved actor and cultural icon, has sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry. The investigation into his death has shed light on the serious issue of prescription drug abuse and the dangers of obtaining drugs through illegal channels.
