Doctor Faces Sentencing for Ketamine Role in Matthew Perry’s Death

A doctor faces sentencing this week for his role in Matthew Perry’s death. Dr. Salvador Plasencia will learn his fate in a Los Angeles courtroom. He pleaded guilty to distributing ketamine to the late actor.

The sentencing follows emotional victim impact statements from Perry’s parents. They described their profound grief and loss. Their letters were submitted to the court ahead of the hearing.

Parents Describe “Deep Well” of Grief in Court Letters

Matthew Perry’s mother and stepfather, Suzanne and Keith Morrison, shared their pain. They called the pain a “deep well” with no bottom. The “Friends” star died in October 2023 from acute ketamine effects.

They wrote that “greedy jackals” came out of the dark. These individuals exploited their son’s vulnerability. They identified Dr. Plasencia as among the most culpable.

According to court documents, Plasencia admitted injecting Perry with ketamine. This happened in the weeks before the actor’s death. One injection occurred in a car outside an aquarium.

A Broken Trust and a Quest for Accountability

Perry’s father, John Perry, also submitted a letter. He and his wife questioned the doctor’s motives. They asked the court for a sentence beyond the mandatory time.

Prosecutors outlined a scheme where Perry paid thousands for ketamine vials. Dr. Plasencia and another physician allegedly distributed them. This occurred after a clinic refused to increase Perry’s dosage.

Plasencia’s lawyer stated he is “profoundly remorseful.” He plans to voluntarily surrender his medical license. The case highlights risks in the at-home ketamine industry.

The sentencing of Matthew Perry’s doctor closes a tragic chapter. It underscores the severe consequences of exploiting addiction. The court’s decision will be delivered soon.

Thought you’d like to know

What did Dr. Plasencia plead guilty to?

Dr. Salvador Plasencia pleaded guilty to four counts of distributing ketamine. He admitted to providing the drug to Matthew Perry without a legitimate medical purpose. His charges carry a maximum sentence of 40 years.

How did Matthew Perry die?

Matthew Perry died from the acute effects of ketamine. The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner ruled his death an accident. He was found unresponsive in his hot tub on October 28, 2023.

What did Perry’s parents say in their letters?

His parents described immense, bottomless grief. They accused Dr. Plasencia of betraying his medical vows and exploiting their son’s addiction. They asked the court for a significant prison sentence.

Were other people charged in this case?

Yes, four other people were charged. This includes another doctor, Perry’s assistant, and an alleged go-between. All have pleaded guilty and await sentencing on separate dates.

Was Plasencia directly responsible for the fatal dose?

According to his plea agreement, the specific ketamine batch in Perry’s system at death was not sold by Plasencia. However, he admitted to selling other vials to Perry for home use in the preceding weeks.