News Summary
Jasveen Sangha has pleaded guilty to multiple drug-related charges in connection with the death of actor Matthew Perry. Facing up to 65 years in prison, her charges include maintaining a drug-involved premises and distributing ketamine, which was linked to Perry’s fatal overdose. This case highlights the ongoing issues of addiction and illegal drug distribution, following the tragic death of the beloved actor known for his role in ‘Friends.’ Sentencing is set for December 2023.
Los Angeles, CA – Jasveen Sangha Pleads Guilty in Connection with Matthew Perry’s Overdose
Jasveen Sangha, a 42-year-old woman, pleaded guilty on Wednesday in a Los Angeles federal court to multiple drug-related charges linked to the death of actor Matthew Perry, known for his role as Chandler Bing on the television series Friends. She faces a significant prison sentence, with the maximum term potentially reaching 65 years. Sentencing is scheduled to take place on December 10, 2023.
Sangha’s guilty pleas include one count of maintaining a drug-involved premises and three counts of ketamine distribution. Additionally, she admitted to one count of distributing ketamine that resulted in death or serious bodily injury, which directly relates to Perry’s tragic overdose on October 28, 2023. Perry was found deceased in a hot tub, with the medical examiner ruling his death as an accidental ketamine overdose.
Sangha is the last of five defendants involved in the case to enter a guilty plea. Prior to his untimely death, Perry had been open about his struggles with addiction and was undergoing ketamine infusion therapy. In mid-October 2023, Perry’s personal assistant, Kenneth Iwamasa, began procuring ketamine from Eric Fleming, who was supplied by Sangha. It is alleged that Iwamasa injected Perry with at least three doses of Sangha’s ketamine on the day he died.
Specifically, Sangha sold a total of 51 vials of ketamine to Perry throughout October 2023. She had previously faced scrutiny for drug sales linked to another overdose; in August 2019, a man named Cody McLaury died after taking ketamine sold by Sangha. During a police search of her North Hollywood residence in March 2023, law enforcement officials discovered 3.7 pounds of pressed pills, 79 vials of liquid ketamine, and various other drugs, indicating her extensive involvement in drug trafficking.
Other Defendants in the Case
Several co-defendants have also entered guilty pleas in connection to Perry’s death. Salvador Plasencia, known as “Dr. P,” pleaded guilty to four counts of ketamine distribution and is awaiting sentencing. Eric Fleming has admitted to conspiracy to distribute ketamine and distribution resulting in death. Kenneth Iwamasa has pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute ketamine causing death. These individuals contributed to the chain of events leading to Perry’s fatal overdose.
Ongoing Legal Developments
Federal prosecutors have hinted that they might consider a lighter sentence for Sangha if she demonstrates acceptance of responsibility for her actions. Following Perry’s death, Sangha reportedly expressed concerns about deleting messages in her correspondence with Fleming, showing her awareness of the implications of their activities.
As the community processes this tragic incident, the case underscores the ongoing battle against substance abuse and the implications of illegal drug distribution. The fallout from Perry’s death has prompted discussions about addiction, recovery, and the responsibility of those who facilitate access to harmful substances. Perry’s legacy as a beloved actor takes on new significance in light of these events, reminding many of the realities faced by those struggling with addiction.
As sentencing approaches for Sangha and her co-defendants, the case continues to draw attention to the profound impact of addiction and the ripple effects of drug-related crimes within communities.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Ketamine Queen to Plead Guilty in Matthew Perry Overdose Case
Additional Resources
- NBC News
- Wikipedia: Matthew Perry
- Los Angeles Times
- Google Search: Matthew Perry overdose
- BBC News
- Google Scholar: Ketamine addiction
- Reuters
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Ketamine
- ABC News
- Google News: Ketamine queen conviction
Author: STAFF HERE HOLLYWOOD
The Hollywood Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HEREHollywood.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Hollywood, Los Angeles County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Hollywood Bowl summer concerts, the Hollywood Christmas Parade, film premieres at TCL Chinese Theatre, and festivals at the Magic Castle. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce and Visit Hollywood, plus leading businesses in entertainment, dining, and tourism that define the local economy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERELosAngeles.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HEREAnaheim.com, and HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
