Second doctor sentenced in Matthew Perry overdose death

December 16, 2025

Dr. Mark Chavez, a California-based physician, received an eight-month home detention sentence and three years of supervised release for his involvement in Matthew Perry's ketamine-related death in 2023. Chavez illegally obtained ketamine from his clinic and a distributor using fraudulent prescriptions, then sold the drug to another doctor who supplied it to the Friends actor. The case is part of a larger federal investigation that uncovered an underground drug network exploiting Perry's addiction, with five individuals pleading guilty to drug-related charges.

Who is affected

Matthew Perry (deceased Friends actor)
Dr. Mark Chavez (sentenced San Diego physician)
Dr. Salvador Plasencia (sentenced physician who directly supplied Perry)
Kenneth Iwamasa (Perry's live-in assistant)
Erik Fleming (individual involved in drug ring)
Jasveen Sangha, known as the "Ketamine Queen" (American-British dealer)
A former patient whose name was used without consent for fraudulent prescriptions

What action is being taken

Dr. Mark Chavez is serving eight months of home detention and three years of supervised release following his sentencing.

Why it matters

This case exposes how medical professionals can exploit vulnerable patients struggling with addiction for financial gain, undermining the trust essential to the doctor-patient relationship. It highlights the dangers of underground drug networks operating within Hollywood and the medical community, particularly involving substances like ketamine that have legitimate medical uses but can be deadly when obtained and administered improperly. The investigation and prosecution send a signal about accountability when healthcare providers violate their professional duties and contribute to patient deaths through illegal drug distribution.

What's next

Jasveen Sangha (the "Ketamine Queen"), Kenneth Iwamasa (Perry's assistant), and Erik Fleming are due to be sentenced in the coming months.

Read full article from source: BBC