Dr. Salvador Plasencia Pleads Guilty in Matthew Perry Ketamine Case

In a significant legal development, Dr. Salvador Plasencia, aged 43, pleaded guilty on July 23, 2025, to four counts of distributing ketamine to the late actor Matthew Perry, known for his role on the television series *Friends*. The plea occurred in federal court in Los Angeles, marking Plasencia as the fourth individual among five charged in connection with Perry's tragic overdose death on October 28, 2023.

Plasencia's admission of guilt comes as part of a plea agreement, which included the dropping of three additional counts of distribution and two counts of falsifying records. While prosecutors clarified that Plasencia did not administer the fatal dose of ketamine to Perry, they outlined that the doctor provided the actor with a substantial quantity of the drug leading up to his death. According to court documents, Plasencia began supplying Perry with approximately 20 vials of ketamine, as well as lozenges and syringes, starting a month prior to his passing, at a price of $4,500.

Perry, who struggled with addiction for many years, had been receiving legal but off-label ketamine treatments for depression from his regular doctor. However, he sought more of the drug than what was prescribed, leading him to Plasencia, who, according to co-defendants, referred to Perry in a derogatory manner in text messages, labeling him a "moron" who could be exploited for financial gain.

The legal proceedings surrounding this case have drawn significant public interest, particularly due to Perry's prominent status as one of the stars of *Friends*. His death has reignited discussions about the responsibility of healthcare providers in the treatment of addiction and mental health issues. Dr. Plasencia's sentencing is scheduled for December 3, 2025, and he faces a maximum of 40 years in prison, although experts suggest that he may receive a lesser sentence under the terms of his plea agreement.

The case has broader implications for the medical community, especially regarding the off-label use of substances like ketamine for mental health treatment. According to Dr. Emily Richards, a psychiatrist at Stanford University, "While ketamine can be effective for treatment-resistant depression, the risks associated with its misuse or illegal distribution are significant. This case underscores the need for stricter regulations and oversight in prescribing practices."

The only remaining defendant in this case is Jasveen Sangha, alleged to be a drug dealer known as the 'Ketamine Queen', who has pleaded not guilty. Her trial is set to commence next month.

As this case unfolds, it raises critical questions about the intersection of healthcare, addiction, and the responsibilities of medical professionals. With the increasing prevalence of off-label ketamine use for depression, the need for comprehensive guidelines and ethical considerations in treating vulnerable patients is more urgent than ever. The consequences of this legal case may influence future regulations and highlight the importance of accountability within the healthcare system.