In a major development, five individuals, including two doctors, have been arrested in connection with the death of actor Matthew Perry, the US Attorney’s Office announced on Thursday. The charges involve allegations of distributing ketamine to Perry during the final weeks of his life.
The announcement came at a press conference held in Los Angeles, where US Attorney Martin Estrada revealed that the defendants are accused of exploiting Perry’s addiction issues. Estrada criticized the defendants for their blatant disregard of legal and ethical standards.
Perry, the beloved star of “Friends,” was found dead in his Pacific Palisades home in October 2023. The Los Angeles Medical Examiner’s Office confirmed that his death resulted from acute ketamine effects and drowning.
Earlier this year, Los Angeles Police Department Capt. Scot Williams had hinted that the investigation into Perry’s death was focused on potential criminal conduct, including how Perry obtained the drugs. The investigation involved multiple agencies, including the US Drug Enforcement Administration and the US Postal Inspection Service.
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Perry’s struggles with addiction were well-documented in his 2022 memoir, “Friends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Thing.” He detailed how his addiction began with prescription medication after a 1997 accident and escalated significantly over the years.
Ketamine, which has seen increased use as a treatment for depression and pain, was reportedly part of Perry’s treatment regimen before his death. Investigators have found that he was receiving ketamine infusion therapy from the arrested doctors.
Perry’s death sent shockwaves through the entertainment world. His “Friends” co-stars—Courteney Cox, Matt LeBlanc, David Schwimmer, Jennifer Aniston, and Lisa Kudrow—released a joint statement expressing their deep sorrow and mourning the loss of their “family” member.
The case continues to unfold, and further details are expected as the investigation progresses.
Watch the report below from ABC News:
BREAKING: Multiple people are facing federal drug charges in connection with the ketamine death of "Friends" star Matthew Perry, sources tell ABC News. An official announcement is expected to be made by law enforcement and investigators later today.
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— ABC News Live (@ABCNewsLive) August 15, 2024
