In a major development regarding the tragic passing of actor Matthew Perry, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has reported that physicians Salvador Plasencia and Mark Chavez have voluntarily relinquished their licenses to prescribe medication. This action comes in the wake of serious allegations linking the two doctors to Perry’s untimely death, a case that has captivated public attention.
Matthew Perry, cherished for his role as Chandler Bing on the iconic TV series Friends, was discovered lifeless in the hot tub of his California home on October 28, 2023. The Los Angeles Medical Examiner later ruled the death as accidental, attributing it to the “acute effects of ketamine” combined with drowning. The news of Perry’s passing sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry and among fans worldwide, prompting a thorough investigation into the circumstances leading to his death.
On August 15, the Department of Justice (DOJ) disclosed that Plasencia and Chavez are among five individuals facing charges connected to Perry’s death. The charges are severe, including accusations of taking advantage of Perry’s long-standing battle with drug addiction. Plasencia, one of the main defendants, is alleged to have conspired with Perry’s assistant, Kenneth Iwamasa, to supply approximately 20 vials of ketamine to Perry in the weeks before his death. It is reported that Plasencia received a substantial payment of $55,000 in cash for the drugs.
Iwamasa has already admitted guilt in a conspiracy to distribute ketamine that led to death, a significant development in the ongoing legal proceedings. Adding complexity to the case, Plasencia is also accused of communicating with Chavez, a physician based in San Diego, about the financial aspects of their illegal dealings. In one particularly incriminating message, Plasencia allegedly wrote, “I wonder how much this moron will pay,” revealing a disturbing disregard 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 federal investigation. He has not yet entered a public plea but was released on bond on August 16. Chavez, who is scheduled for arraignment 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 process unfolds, Matthew Perry’s loved ones and fans continue to mourn the loss of a beloved actor whose portrayal of Chandler Bing brought happiness to millions. Friends creator Marta Kauffman has recently encouraged fans to honor Perry’s legacy by supporting drug treatment centers and celebrating his work on the show, urging the public to remember him for his humor and talent rather than the tragic circumstances surrounding his death.