doctor Faces sentencing in Matthew Perry Ketamine Overdose Case
Los Angeles, CA – December 3, 2025 – A former physician is scheduled to be sentenced today in federal court in Los angeles for his role in the events leading up to the tragic death of actor Matthew perry. Salvador Plasencia, 43, pleaded guilty in July to four counts of illegally distributing ketamine, a powerful anesthetic.This case has brought renewed scrutiny to the off-label use of ketamine and the challenges faced by individuals battling addiction.
The Charges & Potential Penalties
Plasencia faces a notable penalty. He could receive up to 40 years in prison and a fine exceeding $2 million,as outlined in his plea agreement. The charges stem from his illegal distribution of ketamine to Perry in the months leading up to the actor’s death.
His legal team has consistently maintained that Plasencia was not Perry’s treating physician at the time of his passing. However, thay acknowledge his duty in the situation. “Dr. Plasencia is profoundly remorseful for the treatment decisions he made,” his attorney stated previously. He intends to voluntarily surrender his medical license, recognizing his failure to adequately protect Perry, who was especially vulnerable due to his history of addiction.
A Timeline of Events
Here’s a breakdown of the key events leading to this sentencing:
* October 28,2023: Matthew perry,54,was found unresponsive in a jacuzzi at his pacific Palisades home.
* Medical Examiner’s Report: Ketamine was determined to be the primary cause of death.
* Initial investigation: Authorities began investigating the source of the ketamine.
* July 2024: Plasencia pleaded guilty to four federal counts of distribution of ketamine.
* December 3, 2025: Sentencing is scheduled in Los Angeles federal court.
The Broader Context: Ketamine & Addiction
Ketamine is a dissociative anesthetic legally used for certain medical purposes,including treatment-resistant depression and chronic pain. However, it also carries hallucinogenic properties and can distort perception. Increasingly, it’s being used “off-label” – meaning for conditions it isn’t officially approved to treat – which raises concerns about patient safety.
Perry had been receiving ketamine legally from a doctor as part of an off-label depression treatment. however, as his need for the drug grew, he began seeking it from other sources. This is where Plasencia entered the picture.
How Plasencia Supplied the Drug
According to court filings, Plasencia was connected to Perry through another patient. Starting approximately one month before Perry’s death, he illegally provided the actor with:
* 20 vials of ketamine (totaling 100mg)
* Ketamine lozenges
* Syringes
He even enlisted another doctor, Mark Chavez, to help supply the drug. Prosecutors allege that Plasencia discussed establishing a consistent supply line to become perry’s “go-to” source, after receiving $4,500 for the initial sale.
Other Individuals Involved
Plasencia is one of five individuals charged in connection with Perry’s death who have pleaded guilty. Jasveen Sangha, known as the “Ketamine Queen,” is scheduled for sentencing on February 25th and faces up to 65 years in prison.
Perry’s Long battle with Addiction
This case underscores the devastating impact of addiction. Perry publicly battled substance abuse for decades, dating back to his time on the iconic sitcom Friends. He rose to international fame playing Chandler Bing alongside Jennifer Aniston, Courteney Cox, Lisa Kudrow, Matt LeBlanc, and David Schwimmer.The show ran for ten seasons on NBC, from 1994 to 2004, making Perry a household name.
His struggles with addiction were well-documented, and he often spoke openly about his journey to recovery. Unfortunately, as this case demonstrates, the fight against addiction can be a lifelong one, and relapse can have tragic consequences.
If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, please reach out for help. Resources are available:
* SAMHSA National Helpline: 1-800-662-HELP
