By Dr. Salvador Plasencia, a 43-year-old Los Angeles-based physician, has pleaded guilty to illegally distributing ketamine to actor Matthew Perry before his death. This marks the fourth conviction in the federal investigation surrounding the “Friends” star’s passing.
Plasencia testified in court to have given Perry, intravenous injections of ketamine, lozenges, and vials, even after witnessing Petersen experience major side effects. It was shown and acknowledged he brought the drugs to Perry’s house, and at times administered in a car that was parked on the side of the road.
Perry died on October 28, 2023. The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner classified his death as caused by acute effects of ketamine combined with her medical history.
Plasencia is looking at the possibility of as much as 40 years in prison, although he is likely facing significantly less time based on the plea deal. He is scheduled to be sentenced on December 3, 2025. He has consented to give up his medical license and is unable to prescribe controlled substances.
The plea deal dismissed five other charges, including three more counts of ketamine and two charges related to falsifying medical records. Text messages that were presented in court showed Plasencia addressing Perry as “moron” and discussing ways to make money off of him.
Three others have also pled guilty in the case, including Perry’s assistant Kenneth Iwamasa, dealer Erik Fleming, and physician Dr. Mark Chavez. The only remaining defendant is Jasveen Sangha, who allegedly administered the final dose.
Plasencia’s attorney said that the doctor is “deeply remorseful,” taking full responsibility for his part.
