Doctor sentenced in Matthew Perry ketamine case

A Los Angeles-area doctor has been sentenced to 30 months in federal prison for illegally supplying ketamine that contributed to actor Matthew Perry’s death. Dr. Salvador Plasencia, 44, also received a $5,600 fine after pleading guilty to multiple felony charges.

Perry, 54, was found unresponsive in his home jacuzzi on October 28, 2023. The autopsy cited the “acute effects of ketamine” as a primary factor in his death.

Authorities revealed that Plasencia injected Perry with ketamine on several occasions in the weeks leading up to his death, including at the actor’s residence and in a parked car. Perry, who had publicly struggled with substance abuse, had previously been treated with ketamine for depression and anxiety at a licensed clinic. When his treatment needs were not met there, he turned to other providers.

Court documents show Plasencia obtained the drug from another physician and facilitated its use in ways that exploited Perry’s dependency. Text messages revealed an attempt to profit from the actor’s vulnerability. Other individuals involved, including a personal assistant and drug suppliers, have also pleaded guilty and are awaiting sentencing.

During the hearing, Plasencia expressed remorse, acknowledging responsibility and apologizing to Perry’s family. The judge condemned the actions that enabled the actor’s addiction, and Perry’s mother delivered a poignant statement emphasizing the betrayal of the medical oath.