“Ketamine Queen” Pleads Guilty in Matthew Perry Death Case
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A woman accused of supplying the ketamine that led to the death of actor Matthew Perry has agreed to plead guilty to multiple federal charges, including one count related to his death. Jasveen Sangha, 42, will formally enter her plea in the coming weeks, according to the Justice Department.
The case has shed light on a troubling network of individuals allegedly exploiting Perry’s addiction for profit, ultimately contributing to his tragic passing in October 2023. Sangha, a dual citizen of the United States and the United Kingdom, initially faced nine criminal counts but will now plead guilty to five.
Hollywood’s “Wild West” of Ketamine
Federal prosecutors described Sangha’s Los Angeles home as a “drug-selling emporium,” alleging it served as a central hub for the distribution of ketamine and other illicit substances. A raid of the property uncovered dozens of vials of ketamine, along with thousands of pills including methamphetamine, cocaine, and Xanax. Investigators have referred to the residence as the “Sangha Stash House” in court documents.
Perry, best known for his role as Chandler Bing on the hit television series Friends, was found unresponsive in a jacuzzi at his Los Angeles home. An examination determined his death was caused by the “acute effects of ketamine.” The investigation revealed Perry had been obtaining the drug for an extended period, exposing a concerning pattern of access and dependency.
A Network of Suppliers
Sangha is one of five individuals who have agreed to plead guilty in connection with Perry’s death. These include two doctors – Dr. Salvador Plasencia and Dr. Mark Chavez – who allegedly sold ketamine to the actor. Kenneth Iwamasa, Perry’s live-in assistant, is accused of assisting in the purchase and administration of the drug, while Eric Fleming allegedly supplied Perry with ketamine obtained directly from Sangha.
“She’s taking responsibility for her actions,” Sangha’s attorney, Mark Geragos, told the BBC in a statement. She plans to plead guilty to one count of maintaining a drug-involved premises, three counts of distributing ketamine, and one count of distributing ketamine resulting in death or serious bodily injury.
Previous Fatalities Linked to Sangha
This is not the first death linked to Sangha’s alleged drug distribution. As part of her plea agreement, she has also admitted to selling ketamine to Cody McLaury in August 2019, who died hours later from a drug overdose. Federal authorities allege Sangha has been supplying ketamine from her North Hollywood “stash house” since at least 2019, catering to a clientele that included celebrities and high-end customers.
Sangha faces a maximum sentence of 65 years in federal prison. Ketamine, a dissociative anesthetic with hallucinogenic effects, is legally used in medical settings but requires strict physician oversight due to its potential for abuse and harmful side effects. The US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) notes the drug can distort perception and create a feeling of detachment.
A Life of Extravagance
Reports suggest Sangha lived a lavish lifestyle, frequently attending high-profile events such as the Golden Globes and the Oscars. Her social media presence showcased parties and travels to destinations like Japan and Mexico. The case underscores the dark underbelly of Hollywood and the ease with which individuals struggling with addiction can access dangerous substances.
