A California doctor was sentenced to two and a half years in federal prison on Wednesday for his role in the drug overdose death of actor Matthew Perry. Dr. Salvador Plasencia, who pleaded guilty last summer, was convicted of illegally supplying the “Friends” star with ketamine, the powerful anesthetic that caused Perry’s death in October 2023. The sentencing marks the first conclusion in a case that exposed an underground Hollywood drug network preying on the actor’s addiction.
What Did the Doctor Do?
Dr. Salvador Plasencia, also known as “Dr. P,” operated an urgent-care clinic near Los Angeles. He pleaded guilty to four felony counts of illegal distribution of ketamine, a prescription anesthetic with hallucinogenic effects.
Federal prosecutors detailed that Plasencia personally injected Perry with ketamine at the actor’s home and even in a public aquarium parking lot. He also taught Perry’s assistant how to administer the drug and sold them vials to keep at home. In the two weeks before Perry’s death, Plasencia supplied twenty vials of ketamine, along with lozenges and syringes. Prosecutors argued he and others “taken advantage of Mr. Perry’s addiction issues to enrich themselves.”
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How Did Matthew Perry’s Family React?
In powerful victim impact statements filed ahead of the sentencing, Perry’s family expressed their devastation and direct anger at the doctor.
His father and stepmother, John Perry and Debbie, wrote that the loss had “devastated” their family, blaming Plasencia for repeatedly supplying the drugs. “Matthew’s recovery counted on you saying NO,” they stated. “Your motives? I can’t imagine. A doctor whose life is devoted to helping people?”
His mother and stepfather, Suzanne Perry and Keith Morrison, were even more scathing, calling Plasencia a “jackal” who repeatedly broke his Hippocratic Oath. They highlighted text messages where the doctor called Perry a “moron” and discussed how much he could charge. “Sometimes it’s easier to understand when a person commits a terrible crime… But…a doctor? Who trades on respect, and trust?” they wrote.
What Was the Larger Investigation?
Plasencia is one of five individuals who pleaded guilty as part of a multi-year federal investigation. The probe examined how Perry, who was legally using ketamine to treat depression but sought larger amounts, accessed the drug through an illicit network.
The network included a woman prosecutors dubbed the “Ketamine Queen,” who operated a “drug-selling emporium” from her Los Angeles home. Perry’s assistant, Kenneth Iwamasa, also pleaded guilty for his role. The investigation revealed an underground setup that enabled Perry to obtain dangerous amounts of drugs outside any form of legitimate medical supervision or proper healthcare oversight.
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Your Questions Answered: Matthew Perry Case FAQs
Q: What was Dr. Plasencia sentenced for exactly?
A: He was sentenced for four felony counts of illegal distribution of ketamine, not directly for Perry’s death. He faced up to 40 years but received a 2.5-year term after a guilty plea and prosecutor recommendation.
Q: How did Matthew Perry get the ketamine that caused his death?
A: Although legally prescribed ketamine for depression, he pursued larger, illegal amounts. The federal investigation showed he sourced it from several places, including Dr. Plasencia and an underground dealer, bypassing all proper medical channels.
Q: What is the status of the other people charged?
A: Four additional individuals—including Perry’s assistant and the woman known as the “Ketamine Queen”—have also admitted guilt in connection with the case. Their sentencing hearings are still awaited.
Q: What did the family say about Matthew Perry’s state before his death?
A: His family revealed he was hoping for an acting comeback and was planning his “third act.” They said he had spent time trying to recover, making the doctor’s actions a profound betrayal.
Q: Why was the sentence 2.5 years when the maximum was 40?
A: The sentence resulted from a plea agreement with prosecutors, who recommended a three-year term. The judge’s final 30-month sentence considered the guilty plea and other factors, though it was far below the statutory maximum.
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