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- By Ridhi Suri
- Wed, 21 Aug 2024 09:48 AM (IST)
- Source:JND
In a significant development in the case surrounding actor Matthew Perry's death, the US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has revealed that doctors Salvador Plasencia and Mark Chavez have voluntarily given up their prescribing licenses. This action comes in response to allegations connecting them to Perry's tragic death, as reported by E! News. Perry, widely recognised for his role as Chandler Bing on 'Friends,' was found deceased in the hot tub at his California home on October 28, 2023. The Los Angeles Medical Examiner later determined that his death was an accident caused by 'acute effects of ketamine' combined with drowning.
The investigation into Matthew Perry's death is ongoing as the legal proceedings move forward. On August 15, the Department of Justice (DOJ) disclosed that Plasencia and Chavez are among five individuals facing charges related to Matthew Perry's death. The charges include allegations of exploiting Perry's ongoing struggle with drug addiction. Plasencia, a key defendant in the case, is accused of working with Perry's assistant, Kenneth Iwamasa, to supply around 20 vials of ketamine to Perry from September to October 2023, reportedly for USD 55,000 in cash.
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On August 7, Kenneth Iwamasa pleaded guilty to conspiracy charges for distributing ketamine that led to death. Additionally, Plasencia faces accusations of texting Dr. Mark Chavez, a physician from San Diego who allegedly sold ketamine to Plasencia, to discuss the financial details of their transactions. One message reportedly sent by Plasencia read, "I wonder how much this moron will pay."
Plasencia is charged with conspiracy to distribute ketamine, seven counts of distributing ketamine, and two counts of altering and falsifying documents related to the federal investigation. If found guilty, he faces a potential sentence of up to 30 years in federal prison. Plasencia has not yet entered a public plea and was granted release on bond on August 16.
Dr Mark Chavez, set to be arraigned on August 30, has already admitted guilt to charges of conspiracy to distribute ketamine. Should he be convicted, he could face up to 10 years in federal prison. Meanwhile, as the investigation continues, Matthew Perry’s friends and family are focusing on preserving his legacy. Marta Kauffman, co-creator of Friends, has encouraged fans to honour Perry by supporting drug treatment programs and enjoying his performances on the show.
Kauffman stated, "Two things come to mind [about how to celebrate him]: one of them is to donate to drug treatment centres – let's fight the disease. And the second way is to watch Friends and remember him not as a man who died like that but as a man who was hilariously funny and brought joy to everybody."