5 arrested for Matthew Perry’s death and ketamine supply – DW – 15.08.2024

Investigators in Los Angeles announced five arrests on Thursday in their investigation into the ketamine overdose of “Friends” star Matthew Perry last year.

Among those arrested were two doctors and Perry's assistant, who investigators said exploited Perry's drug abuse for their own benefit, as well as two ketamine dealers.

“These defendants exploited Mr. Perry's addiction problems to enrich themselves,” said California attorney Martin Estrada. “They knew what they were doing was wrong. They knew they were putting Mr. Perry in great danger, but they did it anyway,” he said.

Police had previously stated that they were investigating how Perry came into possession of the drug ketamine. The autopsy revealed that ketamine was one of the reasons Perry lost consciousness and drowned in his hot tub last October.

“Ultimately, these defendants were more interested in profiting from Mr. Perry than in caring about his well-being,” Estrada said.

Estrada also pointed out the seriousness of some of the charges, saying one of the doctors could face up to 120 years in prison.

Perry's long struggle with addiction

Perry, who played Chandler Bing in the hit TV sitcom “Friends” from 1994 to 2004, was found unconscious in his hot tub last October. His death at the age of 54 sparked great sadness among fans and colleagues.

At the autopsy, his death was attributed in part to the “acute effects of ketamine.” Only a small amount of the substance was found in his stomach, but a large amount was found in his bloodstream.

Ketamine is often used as an anesthetic by doctors and veterinarians. It is also used in some experimental depression treatments. It is also a fairly popular party drug in some circles.

Perry, who like his five co-stars from “Friends” rose to fame and fortune with the hit series, had spoken openly about his previous addiction to alcohol and painkillers as well as depression.

msh/dj (AFP, AP, Reuters)