In a significant update on the tragic death of actor Matthew Perry, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has announced that two doctors, Salvador Plasencia and Mark Chavez, have given up their licenses to prescribe medication. This decision comes after serious accusations were made against them in connection with Perry’s death, a case that has drawn widespread public attention.
Matthew Perry, who was beloved for his role as Chandler Bing on the hit TV show Friends, was found dead in the hot tub of his California home on October 28, 2023. The Los Angeles Medical Examiner later ruled his death accidental, citing the “acute effects of ketamine” and drowning. Perry’s passing shocked fans around the world and led to a thorough investigation into what happened.
On August 15, the Department of Justice (DOJ) revealed that Plasencia and Chavez are among five people facing charges related to Perry’s death. The charges are serious, including accusations that they took advantage of Perry’s struggle with drug addiction. Plasencia, one of the main defendants, is accused of working with Perry’s assistant, Kenneth Iwamasa, to supply around 20 vials of ketamine to Perry in the weeks before he died. Reports say Plasencia was paid $55,000 in cash for the drugs.
Iwamasa has already admitted to being part of a conspiracy to distribute ketamine that led to Perry’s death, marking a major development in the ongoing legal case. Plasencia is also accused of discussing the financial side of their illegal activities with Chavez, a doctor based in San Diego. In one message, Plasencia reportedly wrote, “I wonder how much this moron will pay,” showing a disturbing lack of care for Perry’s life.
If found guilty, Plasencia could face up to 30 years in federal prison on multiple charges, including conspiracy to distribute ketamine and falsifying documents during the investigation. He has not yet entered a public plea but was released on bond on August 16. Chavez, who is due to appear in court on August 30, has already pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute ketamine and could face up to 10 years in federal prison if convicted.
As the legal proceedings continue, Matthew Perry’s family, friends, and fans are still grieving the loss of an actor who brought joy to millions through his role as Chandler Bing. Marta Kauffman, the creator of Friends, recently encouraged fans to honor Perry’s memory by supporting drug treatment centers and celebrating his work on the show, asking the public to remember him for his humor and talent rather than the tragic circumstances of his death.
