The legal proceedings surrounding the death of beloved Friends star Matthew Perry have reached a significant milestone. On Wednesday, April 8, 2026, Jasveen Sangha, a drug trafficker known as the “Ketamine Queen,” was sentenced to 15 years in prison for her involvement in the actor’s death g1.
The sentence, handed down by federal judge Sherilyn Garnett, marks a severe penalty for Sangha, who operated a sophisticated drug distribution network catering to wealthy clients and celebrities in Hollywood. The ruling was notably harsher than the punishments applied to two other physicians involved in the case g1.
Matthew Perry, who gained global fame as Chandler Bing, was found dead at the age of 54 in 2023. An autopsy report concluded that the cause of death was the “acute effects of ketamine,” which, in combination with other factors, caused the actor to lose consciousness and drown in a hot tub g1.
This case highlights the dangerous intersection of prescription medication and illegal distribution. While Perry had been receiving ketamine infusions for depression and anxiety at a clinic, authorities state he developed a recent dependency. After doctors refused to increase his dosage, he turned to illegal sources to maintain his supply g1.
The Role of the ‘Ketamine Queen’ in the Distribution Chain
Jasveen Sangha did not provide the drugs to Perry directly, but she was the primary source. Sangha confessed to supplying 51 vials of ketamine to an intermediary named Erik Fleming g1. From Fleming, the substances reached the actor through his personal assistant, Kenneth Iwamasa.
The prosecution’s case established that Iwamasa administered at least three doses of ketamine to Perry on the day of his death, using the substances that had originated from Sangha g1.
In September 2025, Sangha pleaded guilty to five crimes related to drug trafficking g1. During the legal process, she admitted to operating a storage and distribution point for illicit substances out of her home in North Hollywood g1.
A Double Life of Luxury and Crime
The public image of Jasveen Sangha was far removed from her criminal activities. According to a BBC documentary, Sangha led a double life, maintaining a facade of wealth, influence, and high-society connections while running a drug operation g1.
Sangha holds dual British and American citizenship and was raised in a wealthy family of entrepreneurs in California. She later studied in London, where she earned an MBA g1. To those around her, she appeared to have a stable life characterized by luxury travel in private jets, constant social media presence, and attendance at prestigious events such as the Oscars and the Golden Globes g1.
Reports indicate that Sangha was part of a social circle in Los Angeles that organized multi-day parties attended by celebrities, where the use of drugs, including ketamine, was frequent g1. Many of her acquaintances claimed they were entirely unaware of her involvement in the drug trade g1.
Understanding Ketamine and Its Risks
Ketamine is a substance used medically as an anesthetic and an antidepressant. However, when used outside of a controlled medical environment or in excessive doses, it can lead to severe consequences. As noted in reports, the drug can cause a loss of consciousness, which in Perry’s case, led to a fatal drowning g1.
The tragedy of Matthew Perry’s death is compounded by his long and public struggle with chemical dependency, a topic he spoke about openly throughout his career g1. Despite reporting that he was sober shortly before his death, the reliance on illegal channels for a substance he had previously used for medical treatment proved fatal.
Key Case Timeline
| Date/Period | Event |
|---|---|
| 2023 | Matthew Perry is found dead at age 54; autopsy cites “acute effects of ketamine” g1. |
| September 2025 | Jasveen Sangha pleads guilty to five drug trafficking crimes g1. |
| April 8, 2026 | Jasveen Sangha is sentenced to 15 years in prison by Judge Sherilyn Garnett g1. |
The sentencing of Jasveen Sangha brings a measure of legal closure to the investigation into the death of one of television’s most iconic figures. It serves as a stark reminder of the dangers associated with the illegal distribution of prescription medications and the vulnerability of those battling addiction.
With the sentencing now complete, the legal focus shifts to the remaining participants in the distribution chain. We will continue to monitor any further official filings or court updates regarding this case.
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