Jasveen Sangha, 42, was sentenced to 15 years in prison on Tuesday after pleading guilty to selling actor Matthew Perry the ketamine that killed him in October 2023. Sangha, known as the 'Ketamine Queen,' is the last of several defendants to be sentenced in connection with Perry's death.
Details of the Sentencing
The sentencing took place in federal court in Los Angeles. Sangha had pleaded guilty to one count of distribution of ketamine resulting in death. Prosecutors argued that she knowingly sold the powerful anesthetic to Perry, who was struggling with addiction. Perry's assistant, Kenneth Iwamasa, was previously sentenced to 24 months in prison for his role in administering the ketamine injections.
Other Defendants
Several others involved in the case have also been sentenced. Dr. Salvador Plasencia, who illegally prescribed ketamine to Perry, received a 30-month sentence. Another doctor, Mark Chavez, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute ketamine and is awaiting sentencing. The case highlights the dangers of unregulated ketamine use and the legal consequences for those who supply drugs contributing to overdose deaths.
The investigation revealed a network of individuals who supplied Perry with large quantities of ketamine in the months before his death. Sangha was described in court as a 'drug dealer who profited from addiction.' Her sentence sends a strong message about accountability in drug-related deaths.
Impact on Addiction Awareness
Perry's death has sparked renewed discussions about addiction treatment and the need for stricter controls on ketamine, which is used in medical settings for depression and pain management. The actor had been open about his struggles with substance abuse and had advocated for recovery programs. His foundation continues to support addiction services.
