Doctor Charged in Matthew Perry’s Death to Plead Guilty in Ketamine Case
One of the doctors involved in the investigation of Matthew Perry’s death is expected to plead guilty to conspiring to distribute ketamine in a federal court in Los Angeles. Dr. Mark Chavez, 54, signed a plea agreement with prosecutors and will be the third person to plead guilty in connection with the “Friends” star’s fatal overdose. Prosecutors offered lesser charges to Chavez and two others in exchange for their cooperation as they pursue two other individuals deemed more responsible for Perry’s death.
Chavez, who is free on bond, surrendered his passport and medical license. His lawyer expressed his remorse and commitment to making amends for his actions. Other individuals, including Perry’s assistant and a drug messenger, are also assisting prosecutors in the case against Dr. Salvador Plasencia and Jasveen Sangha, who are awaiting trial after pleading not guilty.
Chavez admitted to obtaining ketamine illegally and could face up to 10 years in prison. Perry’s death was attributed to ketamine, which he had been using for off-label treatment of depression. The actor’s addiction issues dated back to his time on “Friends,” where he starred alongside Jennifer Aniston, Courteney Cox, Lisa Kudrow, Matt LeBlanc, and David Schwimmer for 10 seasons.
Perry’s struggle with addiction highlights the dangers of substance abuse and the devastating impact it can have on individuals and their loved ones. The legal proceedings surrounding his death serve as a sobering reminder of the consequences of illicit drug use.
