Doctor Pleads Guilty in Matthew Perry Ketamine Case

Dr. Salvador Plasencia has pleaded guilty in Los Angeles federal court to four counts of illegal ketamine distribution related to the overdose death of actor Matthew Perry. He admitted to supplying Perry with ketamine outside legitimate medical practice, including through direct injections and via Perry’s assistant in the weeks leading up to Perry’s death in October 2023. Plasencia faces up to 40 years in prison and will surrender his medical license, though a lighter sentence is expected under federal guidelines. Prosecutors said Plasencia mocked Perry in text messages about drug prices and fabricated a treatment plan after Perry's death to conceal his actions. Four of five defendants, including two other doctors and Perry’s assistant, have pleaded guilty, while alleged main supplier Jasveen 'Ketamine Queen' Sangha awaits trial. Plasencia’s attorney said he is deeply remorseful and hopes the case prompts stricter oversight of at-home ketamine use.