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A woman accused of supplying the ketamine connected to the death of Friends star Matthew Perry has been sentenced to 15 years in federal prison.
Jasveen Sangha, often referred to by prosecutors as the "Ketamine Queen," previously pleaded guilty to five felony counts, including maintaining a drug-involved premises and distributing ketamine, one of which resulted in death. The sentencing took place on Wednesday, April 8, following months of legal proceedings tied to Perry's 2023 overdose.
Authorities said Sangha operated a drug distribution network from her residence in Los Angeles and supplied ketamine through intermediary Erik Fleming. The drugs ultimately reached Perry through his live-in assistant, Kenneth Iwamasa, who later administered multiple injections.
In the weeks leading up to his death, prosecutors said Perry had obtained dozens of vials of ketamine through this network. On Oct. 28, 2023, the 54-year-old actor was found face down in a jacuzzi at his home. An autopsy later determined the cause of death to be the acute effects of ketamine, combined with other contributing factors including drowning.
Court documents revealed that Sangha continued her drug activities even after learning of the fatal consequences tied to her supply. Prosecutors argued this demonstrated a disregard for human life, emphasizing that financial gain appeared to outweigh concern for users.
Following news of Perry's death, investigators said Sangha took steps to conceal communications, including instructing others to delete messages and enabling auto-delete features on encrypted apps.
Four additional defendants, including Fleming and Iwamasa, as well as physicians linked to the case, also pleaded guilty to federal charges. Sentences among them varied, with some receiving prison time and others alternative penalties.
Perry, widely known for his role as Chandler Bing, had long been open about his struggles with addiction. His death came after a period in which he had reportedly been working toward sobriety.
The case has drawn renewed attention to the dangers of illicit drug distribution and the exploitation of individuals battling substance dependence.
