Woman Tied to Matthew Perry’s Death Pleads Guilty
LOS ANGELES (AP) — Jasveen Sangha, often referred to as the “Ketamine Queen,” has agreed to plead guilty to charges related to the sale of ketamine that caused the death of actor Matthew Perry.
Plea Agreement Details
Sangha is the last of five defendants implicated in the overdose death of the “Friends” star to reach a plea deal with federal authorities, thereby avoiding an impending trial. In her court filing, she accepted responsibility, pleading guilty to five federal offenses, including supplying the substance linked to Perry’s demise.
Charges Against Sangha
Her plea includes one count of maintaining a drug-involved location, three counts of ketamine distribution, and one count of drug distribution resulting in death or serious bodily harm. This agreement follows a year-long investigation that resulted in charges against several individuals following Perry’s death in October 2023.
Connection to Other Cases
Sangha acknowledged selling four vials of ketamine to Cody McLaury shortly before he succumbed to an overdose in 2019, with no ties to Perry. Prosecutors plan to dismiss three additional counts against her, which pertain to other distribution cases.
Potential Sentencing
At an upcoming hearing, she will formally change her plea to guilty, with sentencing to follow. Sangha faces up to 45 years in prison, though prosecutors have indicated they will advocate for a lesser sentence. The judge, however, is not obligated to adhere to this recommendation.
Background on Perry’s Death
Perry, who was found deceased by assistant Kenneth Iwamasa, had been using ketamine legally for depression, but began seeking more than his doctor would prescribe. He ultimately turned to Dr. Salvador Plasencia and later Sangha for additional supplies, leading to fatal consequences.
Investigation Outcomes
Sangha’s lavish lifestyle, showcased on social media, masked her role as a dealer to affluent clients. Her residence was raided in March 2024, uncovering large quantities of ketamine and methamphetamines. She has been in federal custody for nearly a year. None of the defendants have been sentenced yet.
