Doctor Pleads Guilty in Connection with Actor’s Death

Los Angeles – Dr. Salvador Plasencia has pleaded guilty to four counts of distribution of ketamine in connection with the death of actor Matthew Perry. The plea took place during a hearing on July 23, 2025, where Plasencia admitted to guilt in relation to his treatment decisions concerning Perry, who died on October 28, 2023, from an accidental ketamine overdose that led to drowning.

As part of the proceedings, Plasencia’s attorney conveyed that the doctor is “profoundly remorseful” and is accepting full responsibility for his actions. In an effort to acknowledge his failure to protect Perry, he will voluntarily surrender his medical license. Currently, he remains out on bond until his sentencing hearing, scheduled for December 3, 2025. Plasencia faces a potential maximum sentence of 40 years in prison, liable to 10 years for each count, along with a hefty fine of up to $2 million.

Perry’s death was classified as accidental and was attributed to acute ketamine effects combined with circumstances leading to drowning. Following the actor’s death, an investigation was initiated by the Los Angeles Police Department, revealing a complex network related to illegal ketamine distribution. In August 2024, Plasencia and four others were charged with conspiracy and distribution related to Perry’s tragic demise.

Among those indicted was Kenneth Iwamasa, Perry’s live-in assistant, who pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute ketamine resulting in death. Erik Fleming also confessed to providing the ketamine tied to Perry’s overdose, admitting to multiple counts in a related case. Another accused individual, Dr. Mark Chavez, has also accepted guilt regarding drug distribution charges. Meanwhile, Jasveen Sangha, labeled as the “Ketamine Queen,” has pleaded not guilty and is scheduled to stand trial in August.

Investigations revealed that Plasencia had developed an underground network of drug dealers and suppliers, contributing to the illegal distribution of ketamine that ultimately impacted Perry’s life. Despite undergoing therapy for depression and anxiety, Perry reportedly sought out ketamine through illicit means. Communications showed that Plasencia and another supplier made light of the amount Perry would pay for the drug, including allegations that Perry paid Plasencia up to $55,000 for ketamine in the month leading to his death.

Crucially, it was disclosed that Plasencia instructed Iwamasa, who lacked medical training, on how to administer ketamine to Perry, further raising alarms about medical ethics and practices surrounding ketamine usage. Federal prosecutors have highlighted that the actions of all individuals implicated in the case embody severe violations of medical ethics and standards.

The ramifications of this case are expected to be far-reaching, possibly resulting in stricter regulations and oversight in the at-home ketamine industry. Prosecution intends for this case to serve as a stark warning to both medical professionals and illegal drug distributors about the life-threatening consequences stemming from such actions. As this case evolves, the legal and medical communities continue to monitor developments closely, emphasizing the importance of ethical practices in health care.