A major development in the investigation into the death of actor Matthew Perry has led to the arrest of five individuals, including Perry’s assistant and two physicians. The arrests follow a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding Perry’s accidental overdose and the illegal distribution of ketamine. The arrested individuals are:
Dr. Salvador Plascencia and Dr. Mark Chavez – Both physicians are accused of distributing ketamine to Perry without a legitimate medical purpose. Plascencia is also alleged to have taught Perry’s assistant how to administer the drug. Plascencia faces a maximum sentence of 120 years in federal prison, while Chavez could receive up to 10 years. Jasveen Sangha Known as “The Ketamine Queen,” Sangha is accused of selling Perry the batch of ketamine that led to his death. Sangha faces a maximum life sentence due to a history of drug trafficking and the severe charges against Kenneth Iwamasa, Perry’s live-in personal assistant, charged with conspiracy to distribute ketamine. Iwamasa faces up to 15 years in prison if convicted. Erik Fleming An acquaintance of Perry, was also charged with conspiracy to distribute ketamine. Fleming could face up to 25 years in federal prison.
The investigation, led by the Department of Justice, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the U.S. Postal Service, and the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD), has revealed disturbing details about the distribution network involved. Over two months, the suspects allegedly provided Perry with approximately 20 vials of ketamine in exchange for $55,000 in cash.
Text messages obtained during the investigation exposed the illegal nature of the transactions, including a derogatory message from Plascencia mocking Perry’s desperation for the drug. Authorities also discovered a substantial cache of drugs at Sangha’s residence, including 79 vials of ketamine, approximately three pounds of methamphetamine, psilocybin mushrooms, cocaine, and prescription drugs.
Martin Estrada, U.S. Attorney for the Central District of California, condemned the actions of the defendants. “The defendants in this case knew what they were doing was wrong,” he said at a press conference. DEA Administrator Anne Milgram further emphasized the exploitation Perry faced, stating, “The desperation that led Perry to these individuals was not met with help, as it should have been from the doctors, but instead was met with exploitation.”
Matthew Perry, best known for his role as Chandler Bing on *Friends*, was found dead in his hot tub on October 28, 2023. The autopsy report revealed that Perry’s death was due to the acute effects of ketamine, with contributing factors including drowning and coronary artery disease. The ketamine levels in his system were consistent with those used for general anesthesia, not for therapeutic purposes.
Perry’s memoir, *Friends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Thing*, documented his struggles with addiction and his hope to help others through his experiences. His passing has sparked a significant investigation into the illegal drug trade and the exploitation of individuals suffering from addiction. As the legal proceedings unfold, the focus remains on ensuring justice for Perry and addressing the broader issues of drug abuse and illegal distribution within the community.
In other news – Garry Mapanzure’s new track scheduled for release on August 23
Music fans and admirers are set to honor the legacy of the late Garry Mapanzure with the release of his highly anticipated album, **”Sarura Wako,”** scheduled for August 23. The album, a tribute to the beloved artist, promises to celebrate his exceptional talent and enduring influence on Zimbabwean music.
Garry Mapanzure, known affectionately as “the King,” was a towering figure in Zimbabwean music, renowned for his profound lyrics and unforgettable melodies. His passing has left a significant void in the industry, but his music continues to resonate deeply with fans across the country and beyond. Read More
