Doctor Pleads Guilty in Matthew Perry Overdose Case

Los Angeles, CA — Dr. Salvador Plasencia has pleaded guilty to charges related to the distribution of the anesthetic ketamine in the case involving the death of actor Matthew Perry. The plea was announced by the Department of Justice on June 16, 2025.

Plasencia is set to face four counts of ketamine distribution, a charge that could lead to a maximum of 40 years in federal prison. He is one of five individuals charged following Perry’s fatal overdose at his home on October 28, 2023, at the age of 54. The beloved actor, known for his role in the TV show “Friends,” was found unresponsive in a jacuzzi, with an autopsy confirming that his death was caused by an acute ketamine overdose.

According to the DOJ, Plasencia distributed 20 vials of ketamine, lozenges, and syringes to Perry and his assistant, Kenneth Iwamasa, between September 30 and October 12, 2023. In his plea agreement, Plasencia admitted that his actions fell below acceptable medical standards.

Iwamasa has also faced legal consequences; he pleaded guilty in August 2024 to conspiracy to distribute ketamine causing death. His sentencing is scheduled for November 2025. Mark Chavez, another doctor involved, previously pleaded guilty to similar charges and is due for sentencing in September.

This story is still developing, with further updates expected as the legal proceedings continue.