Friends Star Matthew Perry Sentenced to Prison Before His Death

Doctor Sentenced in Matthew perry Ketamine Overdose Case

Los Angeles, CA – December 4, 2025 – A Los Angeles doctor has been sentenced to two and a half years in prison for illegally supplying Matthew Perry with ketamine prior to the actor’s death in October 2023. Dr. Salvador Plasencia, who has since lost his medical license, pleaded guilty after initially denying the charges.

Plasencia is the first of five individuals to be convicted in connection with Perry’s death, which was ruled an accidental ketamine overdose. While not accused of providing the fatal dose, Plasencia repeatedly supplied the “Friends” star with the anesthetic in the weeks leading up to his passing.

Perry, known for his decades-long battle with addiction, had been initially prescribed ketamine for pain management. However, authorities allege he sought additional quantities from unauthorized sources.

“Remorse cannot begin to describe the pain, regret and shame that Mr. Plasencia feels,” statements from his legal team indicated.

The investigation remains ongoing, with four additional individuals expected to face legal proceedings related to Perry’s death. This case highlights the dangers of unregulated prescription drug access and the devastating consequences of addiction.

How did Matthew Perry’s 1997 arrest in Hawaii contribute to teh public understanding of his addiction struggles?

The 1997 Arrest in Hawaii & Subsequent Sentencing

Many fans were shocked by the news of Matthew Perry’s passing in October 2023. However, less widely known is a significant legal battle he faced years prior, culminating in a prison sentence. In 1997, while at the peak of Friends‘ popularity, Perry was arrested in Hawaii for possession of prescription drugs and drug paraphernalia. This incident, initially reported as a jet ski accident, quickly revealed a deeper struggle with addiction.

The initial reports focused on a jet ski incident, but police investigation uncovered a significant amount of prescription medication in Perry’s possession, including codeine, vicodin, and Xanax. This led to charges of drug possession and, ultimately, a plea bargain.

Details of the Plea Deal & Sentencing

Perry pleaded no contest to the charges.This allowed him to avoid a trial but still acknowledged the validity of the accusations.The terms of the plea deal involved:

* A 90-day prison sentence: This was a suspended sentence, meaning Perry wouldn’t immediately go to jail.

* Five years of probation: A period of supervised release with strict conditions.

* Mandatory drug counseling: Perry was required to attend regular counseling sessions to address his addiction.

* Regular drug testing: To ensure compliance with the terms of his probation.

While the initial sentence was suspended, Perry did serve time in a California rehabilitation centre as a condition of his probation. He later violated his probation, leading to a more definitive jail term.

The Probation Violation & Actual Jail Time

In 2001, Perry violated the terms of his probation. Details surrounding the violation are somewhat murky, but it involved failing to comply with the requirements of his drug counseling program. This resulted in a judge ordering him to serve the original 90-day prison sentence.

He served approximately 30 days at the Pitchess Detention Center in Castaic, California. This period in jail was a stark contrast to the glamorous life he led as Chandler Bing on Friends. The incident became a public spectacle, with media coverage focusing on the struggles of a beloved television star battling addiction.

Perry’s Openness About His Addiction Struggles

In the years following his sentencing and time in rehab, Matthew Perry became increasingly open about his long-term battle with addiction to alcohol and prescription drugs. He detailed his struggles in his 2022 memoir, Friends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Thing.

* Early Addiction: Perry revealed he became addicted to painkillers after a jet ski accident in 1997 – the same incident that led to his arrest in Hawaii.

* Multiple Rehab Stays: He estimated he underwent 15 rehab stays over the years, spending significant time and money trying to overcome his addiction.

* Impact on Friends: Perry admitted his addiction impacted his performance on Friends at times, and he was often battling withdrawal symptoms while filming.

* Advocacy for Addiction Treatment: He became a vocal advocate for addiction treatment and recovery, hoping to help others struggling with similar issues.

The Connection between the Arrest, Addiction, and Perry’s Death

While the official cause of death was steadfast to be the acute effects of ketamine, Perry’s history of addiction played a significant role in the circumstances surrounding his death. His openness about his struggles highlighted the dangers of long-term addiction and the challenges of maintaining sobriety. The 1997 arrest and subsequent sentencing served as an early, public marker of a battle he would fight for the rest of his life.

Public Reaction & Legacy

The news of Perry’s death sparked an outpouring of grief from fans and colleagues. Many remembered him not only for his comedic talent but also for his bravery in speaking openly about his addiction. His story serves as a poignant reminder of the devastating impact of addiction and the importance of seeking help. The incident in Hawaii,and the subsequent legal consequences,became a part of his public narrative,ultimately contributing to a greater understanding of the