Doctor linked to Matthew Perry's death pleads guilty, faces up to 10 years in prison
Mark Chavez, a doctor implicated in Matthew Perry's death, accepted a plea deal and may face up to 10 years in prison. He pleaded guilty to conspiring to distribute ketamine, which was administered to Perry by his assistant, leading to the actor's drowning. Chavez is currently free on bond, with conditions including surrendering his passport and medical licence.
Mark Chavez, one of the doctors implicated in the tragic death of Matthew Perry, has entered a plea deal and may face a maximum of 10 years in prison. This development follows his guilty plea at the Roybal Federal Courthouse in Los Angeles, where he acknowledged involvement in the distribution of ketamine.
Details of the Plea Deal
Chavez was present in court and pleaded guilty to conspiring to distribute the drug. His admission included selling ketamine to Dr. Salvador Placensia, who allegedly supplied the substance to Perry's long-time assistant, Kenneth "Kenny" Iwamasa. Iwamasa had previously confessed to administering the lethal dose of ketamine to Perry on October 28, 2023.
Chavez’s Conditions of Release
Following the ruling by US Magistrate Judge Jean Rosenbluth, Chavez will remain free on a USD$50,000 unsecured bond, subject to several stipulations. Notably, he must surrender both his passport and medical licence while awaiting sentencing.
Chavez’s Commitment to Cooperate
Matt Binninger, Chavez's lawyer, stated that his client is committed to doing everything possible to rectify the situation resulting in Perry's untimely death. Binninger expressed Chavez's remorse, highlighting the unfortunate circumstances surrounding the incident involving the "universally beloved" actor. He assured that Chavez would continue cooperating with authorities as the case progresses.
Matthew Perry's Struggles with Addiction
Matthew Perry had undergone ketamine therapy for years as a treatment for his depression, famously likening its effects to "being hit in the head with a giant happy shovel" in his 2022 memoir, *Friends, Lovers and the Big Terrible Thing*. Tragically, he passed away due to the acute effects of ketamine, which led to his drowning.
Broader Investigation into Perry's Death
Authorities have apprehended several individuals, including Placensia, friend Erik Fleming, and Jasveen Sangha, known as the "Ketamine Queen," all in connection with Perry's death. They face multiple charges including conspiracy to distribute ketamine, distribution resulting in death, and possession with intent to distribute. US Attorney Martin Estrada remarked on the defendants' exploitation of Perry's addiction, noting their disregard for his wellbeing in pursuit of profit.
