Kenneth Iwamasa, the former live-in assistant to actor Matthew Perry, was sentenced to three years and five months in federal prison for his role in distributing ketamine that led to Perry’s death in 2023. The sentencing took place on May 27, 2026, marking the final resolution in the case involving multiple individuals connected to the actor’s overdose.
What happened
Iwamasa pleaded guilty in August 2024 to one count of conspiracy to distribute ketamine. Prosecutors presented evidence that he purchased the drug and repeatedly administered multiple ketamine injections to Perry, including the three doses responsible for the actor’s death on October 28, 2023. Perry was found deceased by Iwamasa in the hot tub at his Pacific Palisades home.
An autopsy ruled the death accidental, citing the acute effects of ketamine as the primary cause, with contributing factors including drowning, coronary artery disease, and the effects of buprenorphine, a medication Perry was using.
Alongside Iwamasa, other individuals connected to the case have been sentenced: two physicians, Salvador Plasencia and Mark Chavez; Jasveen Sangha, known as the “Ketamine Queen,” who was sentenced to 15 years for supplying the drugs and orchestrating cover-ups; and Erik Fleming, who delivered the ketamine and received a two-year prison term.
Why it matters
This case highlights the serious consequences of illicit drug distribution involving controlled substances like ketamine, especially when used outside medical supervision. The legal actions signal increased accountability for those supplying and administering potentially fatal drugs. Perry’s high-profile status has drawn attention to growing concerns over the misuse of ketamine, which is sometimes used both medically and recreationally.
Background
Matthew Perry was widely recognized for his role as Chandler Bing on the television series “Friends” from 1994 to 2004. His death in 2023 at age 54 triggered investigations into the circumstances surrounding his overdose. Multiple individuals involved in the supply and administration of ketamine to Perry faced federal charges, resulting in a series of guilty pleas and varied prison sentences. The case reflects broader challenges in addressing drug-related deaths linked to prescription and illicit use of powerful substances.
Sources
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