16-8-2024 (LOS ANGELES) US prosecutors have brought charges against five individuals, including two doctors, in relation to the untimely death of beloved ‘Friends’ actor Matthew Perry. The announcement, made on 15 August, marks a significant turn in the investigation into Perry’s passing at his Los Angeles home in 2023.
US Attorney Martin Estrada delivered a scathing indictment of the accused, stating, “These defendants exploited Mr Perry’s addiction struggles for their own financial gain. They were fully aware of the wrongfulness and extreme danger of their actions, yet proceeded regardless.”
The charges encompass two medical professionals and Perry’s personal assistant, highlighting the breadth of the alleged misconduct. Estrada emphasised the gravity of the situation, noting, “Ultimately, these individuals prioritised their own profit over Mr Perry’s wellbeing.”
One of the implicated doctors, Salvador Plasencia, faces particularly severe consequences, with potential federal prison time of up to 120 years if convicted.
Perry, renowned for his portrayal of Chandler Bing in the iconic sitcom ‘Friends’, was discovered unresponsive in his swimming pool in October 2023. His passing at 54 years old sparked a global outpouring of grief from fans and fellow entertainers alike.
The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s office determined that Perry’s death resulted from “the acute effects of ketamine”. While the actor had been undergoing supervised ketamine therapy as part of his addiction recovery, the autopsy revealed an unusually high concentration in his bloodstream, despite no recent supervised infusion sessions.
The investigation into how Perry obtained the ketamine became a focal point for law enforcement, with the Los Angeles Police Department confirming their inquiry in May.
Ketamine, primarily used as an anaesthetic in medical and veterinary settings, has gained attention for its potential in treating depression. However, it is also misused recreationally for its hallucinogenic properties.
Perry’s struggles with addiction were well-documented, including in his 2022 memoir ‘Friends, Lovers And The Big Terrible Thing’. In it, he candidly discussed his numerous attempts at detoxification and dedicated the book to fellow “sufferers”, poignantly writing, “I should be dead.”
The actor’s sudden death elicited an outpouring of grief from Hollywood, including his ‘Friends’ co-stars. Jennifer Aniston, who played Rachel on the show, expressed her profound sorrow, saying, “Oh boy, this one has cut deep.”
