Doctor Mark Chavez to Plead Guilty in Connection with Matthew Perry's Overdose Death
California doctor Mark Chavez is set to plead guilty to illegally distributing ketamine linked to Matthew Perry's overdose death. Chavez faces up to 10 years in prison, while another physician, Salvador Plasencia, has pleaded not guilty. Perry died from acute effects of ketamine, highlighting a tragic case of substance misuse.
Mark Chavez, one of two California physicians charged in connection with the overdose death of "Friends" star Matthew Perry, is expected to plead guilty to illegally distributing ketamine. This development comes as part of a larger investigation into Perry's tragic death.
Chavez to Acknowledge Guilt in Ketamine Distribution Case
Mark Chavez has reached an agreement with prosecutors and is set to plead guilty to a felony charge of conspiracy to distribute ketamine. This short-acting anesthetic, known for its hallucinogenic properties, was involved in the events leading up to Perry's death. Chavez is scheduled to appear in a Los Angeles court to enter his plea, facing a potential sentence of up to 10 years in prison.
Co-Defendants Maintain Not Guilty Pleas
In contrast to Chavez, fellow physician Salvador Plasencia has pleaded not guilty. Alongside him, co-defendant Jasveen Sangha, identified as an illicit ketamine supplier, is also maintaining her innocence. Their trial is set for March. Authorities allege that Plasencia purchased ketamine from Chavez, highlighting exchanges in text messages that included derogatory remarks regarding Perry.
Circumstances Surrounding Perry's Death
Matthew Perry, who was 54 at the time of his death in October 2023, reportedly succumbed to the acute effects of ketamine among other contributing factors, leading to his loss of consciousness and subsequent drowning in a spa, as detailed in a December autopsy report. The investigation has also implicated Kenneth Iwamasa, Perry's live-in personal assistant, who admitted to injecting him.
Expressions of Remorse by Chavez's Legal Team
Chavez's attorney, Matt Binninger, conveyed that his client is deeply remorseful regarding the circumstances leading to Perry's death. Binninger emphasized that Chavez's regret is rooted in the tragic outcome rather than Perry's celebrity status, expressing that "someone who was trying to seek treatment died." Chavez's cooperation with the ongoing investigation has been underscored as part of his efforts to address the situation responsibly.
