San Diego Doctor Admits Guilt
Dr. Mark Chavez, a San Diego-based physician, became the third person to plead guilty in connection to actor Matthew Perry’s fatal overdose. Chavez’s plea marks a significant step as prosecutors work to secure convictions against two individuals they believe played larger roles in the “Friends” star’s death.
Guilty Plea for Ketamine Distribution
Chavez, 54, admitted to conspiring to distribute the anesthetic drug ketamine, a key substance in Perry’s overdose. He entered a guilty plea in a Los Angeles federal court after reaching an agreement with prosecutors in July. The plea agreement positions Chavez as a crucial cooperator in the case.
Cooperation in Targeting Bigger Players
As part of his agreement, Chavez will assist in building cases against Dr. Salvador Plasencia and Jasmine Sangha, who are seen as the major players behind Perry’s death. Prosecutors claim Plasencia directly administered ketamine to Perry, while Sangha, known as the “ketamine queen,” allegedly supplied the deadly doses.
Courtroom Confession
During the court session, Chavez responded to detailed questions from Judge Sherilyn Peace Garnett and admitted his involvement in illegally distributing ketamine. He confessed to supplying 22 vials of the drug, obtained through fraudulent prescriptions, and collaborating with Plasencia on multiple occasions.
Emotional Admission of Guilt
Chavez’s voice trembled when the prosecutor recounted the events leading to Perry’s death. When asked if he was pleading guilty because he committed the described actions, Chavez quietly replied, “Yes, your honor.”
Awaiting Sentencing and Further Consequences
After his guilty plea, Chavez remains free on bond until his sentencing in April 2024. In addition to forfeiting his passport, he has agreed to surrender his medical license and adhere to several other conditions while awaiting sentencing.
Key Witnesses Bolster Prosecution’s Case
Alongside Chavez, other key figures in the case have also agreed to cooperate with federal prosecutors. Perry’s assistant, who helped him procure and administer ketamine, and a mutual acquaintance acting as a drug intermediary have provided crucial testimony.
The Final Days of Matthew Perry
Matthew Perry was found dead on October 28, 2023, by his assistant. The cause of death was ruled as a ketamine overdose, a drug Perry had been using as a treatment for depression. In the month leading up to his death, Perry sought larger amounts of ketamine, ultimately connecting with Plasencia and Chavez, who facilitated the fatal dose.
SOURCE: Ref Image from The Times
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