California Doctor to Plead Guilty in Matthew Perry Overdose Case

Dr. Mark Chavez, one of five charged in actor Matthew Perry's death, will plead guilty to illegally distributing ketamine. Expected to face up to 10 years in prison, Chavez's sentencing follows a plea agreement. Perry, known for 'Friends,' died from ketamine overdose in October 2023.

One of two California doctors among five people charged in the overdose death of 'Friends' star Matthew Perry is expected to plead guilty on Wednesday to illegally distributing the drug ketamine.

According to a signed agreement, Dr. Mark Chavez will plead guilty to a single felony count of conspiracy to distribute ketamine, a short-acting anesthetic with hallucinogenic properties. Chavez is set to appear in U.S. District Court in Los Angeles to enter his plea, which could result in up to 10 years in prison at sentencing.

Another physician charged in the case, Dr. Salvador Plasencia, and co-defendant Jasveen Sangha, who authorities claim was an illicit supplier of the drug, have pleaded not guilty and are scheduled for trial in March. Perry's personal assistant and an alleged middleman have already pleaded guilty.

Court documents reveal Plasencia obtained ketamine from Chavez and administered it to Perry, who died in October 2023 due to 'acute effects' of the drug and other factors that led to his drowning in his hot tub. Chavez's attorney stated his client is remorseful and cooperating fully.

(With inputs from agencies.)