Federal authorities have charged five individuals in connection with the tragic death of “Friends” star Matthew Perry, a case that has garnered widespread attention due to the involvement of Jasveen Sangha, often referred to as the “ketamine queen” of Los Angeles. Sangha, 41, faces serious allegations of supplying the ketamine that led to Perry’s overdose in October 2023. During her appearance at the federal courthouse in Los Angeles, Sangha, shackled and facing grave charges, pleaded not guilty.
Sangha is a central figure in this case, alongside Dr. Salvador Plasencia, also known as “Dr. P,” a licensed medical doctor. The indictment claims that Sangha sold 50 vials of ketamine to Perry for approximately $11,000 over a two-week period. Perry’s personal assistant, Kenneth Iwamasa, is also implicated in this case, as he, along with another individual, Eric Fleming, reportedly helped distribute the drugs to Perry.
In the wake of Perry’s death, the co-conspirators allegedly sought to distance themselves from the actor, with Sangha instructing Fleming to “delete all our messages” once the news of Perry’s passing broke. This attempt to cover their tracks has only intensified the investigation.
Judge Alka Sagar denied Sangha’s request for release on bond, expressing concerns about her ongoing involvement in drug dealing. The judge pointed to Sangha’s alleged connections to two overdose deaths—Perry’s and another individual, Cody McLaury, who died in August 2019 after buying ketamine from her. The U.S. Attorney’s Office noted that Sangha was well aware of the dangers of ketamine, as evidenced by her internet search inquiries about whether ketamine could be listed as a cause of death shortly after McLaury’s passing.
The investigation further revealed that Perry initially obtained ketamine from Dr. Plasencia and another doctor, Mark Chavez. However, when the drugs became too costly, Perry turned to Sangha for a cheaper alternative. A search of Sangha’s residence following Perry’s death uncovered what authorities described as a “drug-selling emporium,” which included ketamine, methamphetamine, cocaine, scales, and ledgers.
As a dual citizen of the United States and Great Britain, Sangha faces a daunting legal battle. Her next court hearing is scheduled for October 15, and if convicted, she could face a maximum sentence of life in prison. Among the other four individuals charged in this case are Perry’s personal assistant and the two doctors involved in the ketamine distribution.
The death of Matthew Perry, beloved for his iconic role as Chandler Bing on “Friends,” has brought immense scrutiny to this case, especially with the involvement of Jasveen Sangha, whose activities have led to multiple overdose deaths. The effects of ketamine on depression are a known topic of discussion, yet this case highlights the dark side of its misuse and the devastating consequences it can have. Federal authorities are committed to unraveling the full extent of the drug distribution network that played a role in Perry’s untimely death, determined to hold those responsible accountable.
