1st person set to be sentenced in connection with Matthew Perry's ketamine death

Published: Wednesday, December 3, 2025 at 10:10 am

Doctor Faces Sentencing in Matthew Perry Ketamine Death Case

A doctor, Salvador Plasencia, is set to be sentenced for his role in the death of actor Matthew Perry. Plasencia pleaded guilty to four counts of distributing ketamine, admitting to providing the drug to Perry in the weeks leading up to his death in October 2023. The actor was found unresponsive and an autopsy revealed his death was caused by the acute effects of ketamine.

Prosecutors have recommended a 36-month prison sentence, arguing that Plasencia exploited Perry's medical vulnerability for profit. They cited text messages where Plasencia expressed interest in how much Perry would pay for the treatment. Plasencia's attorneys are seeking a sentence of time served and supervised release, citing the loss of his medical license, clinic, and career, as well as the public scrutiny he has faced.

According to the plea agreement, Plasencia distributed ketamine vials, lozenges, and syringes to Perry and his assistant. The agreement also states that Plasencia's actions fell below the proper standard of medical care. The assistant, Kenneth Iwamasa, also pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute ketamine causing death.

The case involves several other individuals who have also pleaded guilty. These include another doctor, Mark Chavez, who is scheduled to be sentenced in December, and two dealers, Erik Fleming and Jasveen Sangha, who provided the fatal dose of ketamine. Sentencing dates for Iwamasa, Fleming, and Sangha are scheduled for 2026.

BNN's Perspective: This case highlights the dangers of medical professionals exploiting vulnerable individuals for financial gain. While the doctor did not provide the fatal dose, his actions contributed to the circumstances that led to Perry's death. The recommended sentence reflects the seriousness of the charges and the need to hold medical professionals accountable for their actions.

Keywords: Matthew Perry, ketamine, overdose, Salvador Plasencia, sentencing, distribution, drug, death, Friends, actor, Kenneth Iwamasa, Mark Chavez, Erik Fleming, Jasveen Sangha, medical, prison, plea agreement, legal, court.

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