Five people, including two doctors, have been charged in connection with the death of actor Matthew Perry.
The headlines determine: Federal authorities have filed drug charges in connection with the distribution of ketamine, which is sometimes used to treat depression.
- The defendants are accused of conspiracy to distribute ketamine, distribution of the drug resulting in death, possession with intent to distribute, and altering and falsifying investigative documents.
- The main defendants are Jasveen Sangha, known as the “Ketamine Queen,” and Salvador Plasencia, nicknamed “Dr. P,” who are accused of exploiting Perry’s addiction to enrich themselves.
The background story: Perry was found dead in his swimming pool at his Pacific Palisades home on October 28. Traces of ketamine were found in his stomach.
- The autopsy revealed that his blood contained approximately the same levels of ketamine as would be used for general anesthesia, resulting in hyperstimulation of the cardiovascular system and respiratory depression, which ultimately led to his death.
- Perry had no other drugs or paraphernalia in his system and had been clean for 19 months at the time of his death.
- Ketamine is a legal drug commonly used as an anesthetic, but it is increasingly being used “off label” in private clinics to treat depression and other mental disorders.
