Dr. Mark Chavez, a California physician, has received a sentence of eight months home detention and three years of supervised release. This sentencing relates to drug charges stemming from the 2023 death of actor Matthew Perry. Dr. Chavez is the second individual to be sentenced in connection with the case.
Plea and Role in Investigation
Dr. Chavez is one of five individuals who have entered guilty pleas to drug-related charges following Mr. Perry's death in his Los Angeles home. He admitted to fraudulently obtaining ketamine from his clinic and a wholesale distributor. This ketamine was then sold to Dr. Salvador Plasencia, who subsequently supplied the substance to Mr. Perry. Dr. Plasencia was previously sentenced to 30 months in prison earlier this month.
Federal Investigation Details
A multi-year federal investigation into Mr. Perry's death examined the means by which the actor acquired ketamine. The investigation indicated acquisition occurred through an illicit drug network in Hollywood. Ketamine is a surgical anesthetic that also serves as a treatment for depression, anxiety, and pain. Mr. Perry, who had a history of drug addiction and depression, had been prescribed ketamine for treatment. However, he sought quantities exceeding his prescribed allotment, which led to his involvement with the drug network.
Other Individuals Involved
The drug network implicated two doctors, Mr. Perry's live-in assistant, Erik Fleming, and Jasveen Sangha, identified as the 'Ketamine Queen'. The latter three individuals are scheduled for sentencing in the upcoming months. A post-mortem examination concluded that a high concentration of ketamine in Mr. Perry's blood resulted in his death due to its acute effects.