Doctor Pleads Guilty in Matthew Perry's Ketamine Overdose Death

Dr. Mark Chavez faces a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison for conspiring to distribute ketamine, a drug that contributed to Matthew Perry's death in 2023. Chavez is one of three individuals charged in connection to the actor's overdose.

Dr. Mark Chavez, a San Diego-based physician, has pleaded guilty to conspiring to distribute ketamine in connection to the death of Matthew Perry. Perry, renowned for his role as Chandler Bing in the popular sitcom "Friends," died in October 2023 from "acute effects of ketamine," as determined by his autopsy.

Chavez's guilty plea is part of an agreement that includes a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison. He is one of three individuals charged in connection to Perry's overdose. The other two defendants, Dr. Salvador Plasencia and Kenneth Iwamasa, have both pleaded not guilty and are awaiting trial.

Doctor Pleads Guilty in Matthew Perry's Ketamine Overdose Death

According to court documents obtained by Fox News Digital, Perry had been seeking an additional source of ketamine in the month leading up to his death. His previous physician had refused to provide him with any more of the drug. Perry subsequently encountered Plasencia, who approached Chavez for the ketamine.

Chavez admitted to selling ketamine to Plasencia, including ketamine that he had diverted from his former clinic. Plasencia allegedly instructed Perry's assistant, Iwamasa, on how to administer the drug to the actor.

Doctor Pleads Guilty in Matthew Perry's Ketamine Overdose Death

During a court hearing on August 30, 2023, U.S. Magistrate Judge Jean P. Rosenbluth allowed Chavez to remain free on bond with several restrictions. These conditions include surrendering his passport and abstaining from practicing medicine.

Chavez expressed remorse for his actions, saying, "Not just because it happened to Matthew Perry, but because it happened to a patient. He is trying to do everything in his power to right the wrong that happened here."

Doctor Pleads Guilty in Matthew Perry's Ketamine Overdose Death

Matthew Perry's death has brought renewed attention to the dangers of ketamine, a dissociative drug that is often used in medical settings for anesthesia. However, recent years have seen a rise in recreational use of ketamine, which can lead to addiction and severe health consequences.

The indictment in Perry's case also charged "Ketamine Queen" Jasveen Sangha with distributing ketamine and maintaining a drug-involved premises. Sangha is scheduled to face trial alongside Plasencia.

Doctor Pleads Guilty in Matthew Perry's Ketamine Overdose Death

The plea agreement reached by Chavez is a significant development in the prosecution of those responsible for Matthew Perry's death. It underscores the seriousness of the charges and the potential consequences for those involved in the illegal distribution of dangerous drugs.