A California doctor is set to plead guilty for his role in supplying actor Matthew Perry with ketamine, a powerful anesthetic, before Perry’s tragic overdose. Dr. Salvador Plasencia faces four counts of distributing the drug, according to federal prosecutors. He could face up to 40 years in prison, with his plea expected in the coming weeks.
Matthew Perry, best known for his role as Chandler Bing on the hit TV show "Friends," was found dead in his hot tub in Los Angeles in October 2023 at the age of 54. His death shocked fans worldwide, especially since he had openly discussed his struggles with addiction and mental health.
Prosecutors revealed that text messages shared with them indicated Dr. Plasencia had a dismissive attitude toward Perry, referring to him as a "moron" and questioning how much he would pay for the drugs. The doctor reportedly injected Perry with ketamine at his home and even in the parking lot of the Long Beach Aquarium. He also taught Perry’s assistant how to administer the drug and sold them additional vials to keep at home.
Dr. Plasencia is one of five individuals charged in what authorities describe as an underground network supplying Perry with ketamine. While Perry was legally prescribed the drug to manage his depression, he sought more than what was authorized.
Between September 30 and October 12, 2023, Dr. Plasencia sold Perry and his assistant twenty vials of ketamine, along with syringes. This case highlights the troubling intersection of celebrity culture and substance abuse, raising questions about accountability among medical professionals.
As the legal proceedings unfold, many are left reflecting on the impact of addiction and the importance of responsible medical practices.