Accused doctors surrender licenses amid allegations tied to Matthew Perry’s tragic death

In a significant turn of events surrounding the tragic death of actor Matthew Perry, the US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has confirmed that doctors Salvador Plasencia and Mark Chavez have surrendered their registrations to prescribe medication. This development follows allegations that link the two physicians to Perry’s untimely demise, a case that has garnered widespread attention.

Matthew Perry, beloved for his portrayal of Chandler Bing on the iconic television show Friends, was found dead in the hot tub of his California residence on October 28, 2023. The Los Angeles Medical Examiner later determined that the actor’s death was accidental, citing "acute effects of ketamine" in combination with drowning as the cause. The shocking news sent ripples through the entertainment industry and among fans worldwide, leading to a deeper investigation into the circumstances surrounding Perry's death.

On August 15, the Department of Justice (DOJ) revealed that Plasencia and Chavez are among five individuals charged in connection with Perry's death. The charges against them are severe, including allegations of exploiting Perry’s long-standing struggle with drug addiction. Salvador Plasencia, one of the primary defendants, is accused of collaborating with Perry’s assistant, Kenneth Iwamasa, to distribute approximately 20 vials of ketamine to Perry in the weeks leading up to his death. Reports indicate that Plasencia received a staggering $55,000 in cash for the drugs.

Iwamasa has already pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute ketamine causing death, a critical development in the ongoing legal proceedings. Further complicating the case, Plasencia is also accused of exchanging messages with Chavez, a San Diego-based physician, to discuss the financial details of their illegal transactions. One particularly damning message reportedly sent by Plasencia read, "I wonder how much this moron will pay," indicating a callous disregard for Perry’s life.

If convicted, Plasencia faces up to 30 years in federal prison on multiple charges, including conspiracy to distribute ketamine and falsifying documents related to the federal investigation. He has yet to enter a public plea but was released on bond on August 16. Chavez, who is set for arraignment on August 30, has already pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute ketamine and could face up to 10 years in federal prison if convicted.

As the legal proceedings continue, Matthew Perry’s friends, family, and fans grapple with the loss of a beloved figure whose portrayal of Chandler Bing brought joy to millions. Friends creator Marta Kauffman recently urged fans to honor Perry’s memory by supporting drug treatment centers and celebrating his work on the show, reminding the world to remember him for his humor and talent rather than the tragic circumstances of his death.