US Prosecutors Charge Five in Matthew Perry Case: Allegations of Exploitation and Drug Misuse

Los Angeles: US prosecutors announced Thursday that five individuals, including two doctors, have been charged in connection with the death of “Friends” star Matthew Perry. Perry, who passed away at his Los Angeles home last year after a long battle with addiction, was found unresponsive in his swimming pool at the age of 54.

The accused, which include two medical professionals and Perry’s assistant, are alleged to have exploited the actor’s addiction issues for their own financial gain. “These defendants were fully aware that their actions were wrong and posed significant danger to Mr. Perry, yet they chose to proceed regardless,” stated US Attorney Martin Estrada.

Salvador Plasencia, one of the doctors involved, could face up to 120 years in federal prison if convicted, according to Estrada.

Perry was widely known for his role as Chandler Bing on the iconic TV series “Friends,” which aired from 1994 to 2004. The show followed the lives of six young New Yorkers and became a global phenomenon, propelling its cast members to international stardom. Perry’s portrayal of Chandler, a sarcastic character resistant to adulthood, was particularly beloved by fans.

Despite his success, Perry struggled with addiction throughout his life. An autopsy revealed that his death was caused by “the acute effects of ketamine,” a controlled substance he was reportedly using as part of a supervised therapy program. While only trace amounts were found in his stomach, a significant level of the drug was present in his bloodstream.

The legal investigation into how Perry obtained the drug, especially since he had not undergone a supervised session in the days leading up to his death, has been ongoing. In May, Los Angeles police confirmed they were investigating the circumstances surrounding his passing.

Ketamine, which is commonly used by doctors and veterinarians as an anesthetic, has also been studied as a treatment for depression. However, it is often misused illicitly for its hallucinogenic effects.

Perry’s struggles with addiction were well-documented. In his 2022 memoir, “Friends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Thing,” he opened up about his battles with substance abuse, including a near-death experience in 2018 when a burst colon, linked to his drug use, required multiple surgeries. He recounted going through detoxification dozens of times and dedicated his memoir to others who suffer from similar issues, writing, “I should be dead.”

The news of Perry’s sudden death shocked fans and colleagues alike, prompting heartfelt tributes from Hollywood’s elite and his “Friends” co-stars. Jennifer Aniston, who played Rachel on the show, expressed her grief, saying, “Oh boy, this one has cut deep.”

Perry’s death continues to resonate deeply with fans and the entertainment industry, highlighting the tragic impact of addiction and the importance of proper care and supervision for those battling it.