Jasveen Sangha, who admitted guilt last year for supplying a lethal dose of ketamine to actor Matthew Perry, is set to face sentencing on Wednesday.
Often referred to as the “Ketamine Queen,” Sangha is the fifth individual to accept a plea deal in connection with this case. Federal prosecutors are advocating for a 15-year prison sentence, emphasizing her significant involvement in Perry’s death as well as that of another victim, pointing out her “extensive illegal activities” and her “indifferent reaction” to the fatalities she contributed to.
Perry, who was 54 years old when he passed away in October 2023, had ketamine identified as the principal cause of his demise. The “Friends” actor had battled addiction for many years and had previously received ketamine legally for depression treatment. However, after his doctor denied his requests for higher doses, he turned to alternative sources.
In total, five individuals have been charged in relation to this incident, including two physicians, Salvador Plasencia and Mark Chavez; Perry’s assistant, Kenneth Iwamasa, who administered the drug to the actor prior to his death; Erik Fleming, a friend of Perry’s; and Sangha herself.
While the doctors did not directly provide the ketamine that led to Perry’s death, a judge remarked to Plasencia that he and others contributed to Perry’s demise by “continuing to fuel his ketamine dependency.” Sangha, aged 42, confessed to supplying Perry with approximately 50 vials of ketamine prior to his passing, with Fleming serving as an intermediary.
In her plea deal, Sangha acknowledged that she had been distributing various drugs, including ketamine and methamphetamine, from her North Hollywood residence since 2019. She admitted to selling ketamine to Cody McLaury, a 33-year-old who passed away shortly after acquiring the drugs in 2019, and continued her illegal dealings even after learning of their deaths. Prosecutors highlighted these elements when requesting a 15-year sentence.
The prosecution stated in court documents, “The defendant’s behavior reveals a shocking callousness and disregard for life. She prioritized financial gain over the well-being of others, inflicting profound grief on the families of the victims.”
Sangha comes from an affluent background, attended a prestigious university, and holds a master’s degree. Prosecutors contended that her motivation for drug trafficking was rooted in “avarice, glamour, and accessibility.”
Conversely, the defense argued that Sangha has taken full responsibility for her actions and does not downplay her conduct. Represented by notable attorneys Mark Geragos and Alexandra Kazarian, her legal team emphasized that she has no prior criminal record and has actively participated in recovery and rehabilitation programs while incarcerated. They are advocating for her release, citing her time served.
The defense argued in court filings, “Ms. Sangha’s evident rehabilitation, including two years of sustained sobriety and ongoing engagement in recovery initiatives, demonstrates a genuine commitment to change and a minimal risk of reoffending.”
Despite her plea agreement, the judge is not obligated to impose a reduced sentence, and Sangha could potentially face up to 65 years in prison.
