Doctor Sentenced For Supplying Ketamine To Matthew Perry

Doctor Sentenced for Supplying Ketamine to Matthew Perry

Salvador Plasencia, the doctor tied to the ketamine supply that preceded Matthew Perry's tragic overdose, faced the music on Wednesday. In a gripping court session in Los Angeles, Plasencia was handed a 30-month federal prison sentence. Amidst the somber proceedings, he publicly apologized to Perry's family, acknowledging the gravity of his actions.

“I failed Mr. Perry. I failed his family,” Plasencia admitted, reflecting on his breach of duty.

The legal saga, marked by Plasencia's admission of distributing the potent anesthetic, concluded with his guilty plea to four counts of ketamine distribution. While prosecutors made it clear he wasn't responsible for the fatal dose, the case shone a spotlight on his unethical behavior.

Judge and Prosecutor Condemn Plasencia's Actions

Judge Sherilyn Peace Garnett saw through the defense's argument that Plasencia's intentions were to help treat Perry's depression. "I don't find that rings true," she stated, suggesting the doctor pursued financial gain by exploiting Perry's addiction. Plasencia pocketed $55,000 from the actor during their brief interactions, a detail that underscored his motivations.

Text messages presented in court painted a disturbing picture. In one, Plasencia shockingly referred to Perry as a "moron," revealing a blatant disregard for medical ethics. Prosecutor Ian Yanniello didn't mince words, calling Plasencia "a drug dealer in a white coat," challenging any notion of medical concern.

Family's Heartfelt Responses and Legal Aftermath

Plasencia's lawyer, Karen Goldstein, conceded that greed clouded his judgment, urging the court to consider his past as a licensed physician. Yet, the heartfelt statements from Perry's family left a lasting impact. Suzanne Morrison, Perry's mother, addressed Plasencia directly: "This is my boy... To be called a 'moron' – there's nothing moronic about that man."

Madeline Morrison, Perry's half-sister, echoed these sentiments, reminding everyone that celebrities are human. "Celebrities are not just plastic dolls you can take advantage of," she emphasized. "They're people."

Matthew Perry, forever remembered as Chandler Bing from Friends, battled substance abuse for years. His family's emotional testimonies highlighted the personal toll of Plasencia's actions. As Plasencia was led away in handcuffs, the case served as a stark reminder of the ethical duties of medical professionals and the dangers of exploiting vulnerable individuals battling addiction.