Dr. Mark Chavez has pleaded guilty in connection with the drug-related death of actor Matthew Perry, known for his role on *Friends*. In a Los Angeles court, Chavez admitted to conspiring to distribute ketamine, a surgical anesthetic that was found in high concentrations in Perry’s blood after his death in October 2023.
Chavez operated a ketamine clinic and sold ketamine lozenges to Dr. Salvador Plasencia, who allegedly supplied them to Perry. Perry’s assistant, Kenneth Iwamasa, was also implicated in facilitating the distribution of over $50,000 worth of ketamine to the actor in the weeks leading up to his death.
In his plea agreement, Chavez acknowledged obtaining ketamine through fraudulent prescriptions. Prosecutors revealed that the doctors exchanged messages discussing pricing for the drug, reflecting a troubling disregard for Perry’s well-being. Although Chavez’s plea may reduce his potential sentence, he could still face up to 10 years in prison. He has agreed to cooperate with the ongoing investigation and has surrendered his medical license and passport. Sentencing is scheduled for April 2, 2025.