‘Ketamine Queen’ Sentenced to 15 Years for Supplying Drug that Led to Matthew Perry's Death

Jasveen Sangha, 42, known infamously as the "Ketamine Queen," received a 15-year prison sentence after pleading guilty to charges related to the death of actor Matthew Perry. The sentencing comes after she admitted to selling the drug that contributed to the tragic incident.

Perry, 54, was discovered unresponsive in the hot tub of his Los Angeles residence on October 28, 2023. An autopsy confirmed that the "acute effects of ketamine" were the primary cause of his death. Sangha's legal troubles began when she was indicted in August 2024, with her trial initially set for September of that year.

In a victim impact statement, Debbie Perry, the actor's stepmother, urged the court to impose the maximum penalty on Sangha, labeling her a "heartless" dealer responsible for providing the fatal dose. This sentiment echoed throughout the courtroom as family members expressed their grief and anger over Perry's untimely demise.

Prosecutors characterized Sangha as a significant player in the drug trade, frequently referred to as the "Ketamine Queen" in legal documents and press releases. She ultimately pleaded guilty to five federal charges, including maintaining a drug-involved premises and distributing ketamine resulting in death.

During her sentencing hearing, Sangha expressed remorse, stating she wears her shame “like a jacket.” She acknowledged her actions were not mere mistakes but rather “horrible decisions” that shattered lives. Judge Garnett responded by emphasizing the need for resilience in her journey ahead.

Notably, Sangha is the only defendant whose plea deal explicitly recognized her role in Perry's death. Her attorneys argued for leniency, citing her lack of prior criminal history and good behavior while incarcerated. They contended that her time served should suffice as punishment.

Keith Morrison, Perry’s stepfather and a correspondent for NBC’s Dateline, conveyed the ongoing sorrow felt by Perry’s family, highlighting their daily struggle with grief. The actor had battled addiction for years but had reportedly maintained sobriety before his death.

Prior to his passing, Perry had been using ketamine legally through a doctor for depression treatment. However, he sought more than what was prescribed and turned to Sangha for additional supplies shortly before his death. Prosecutors revealed that he purchased 25 vials of ketamine for $6,000 just days before he was found dead.

On the day of his death, Sangha suggested deleting their messages, indicating a level of awareness about the gravity of their dealings. Other defendants involved in Perry's case include medical professionals and his personal assistant, who are awaiting sentencing.

Sangha also admitted to selling drugs to another individual, Cody McLaury, who died from an overdose in 2019. The prosecution highlighted her continued drug dealing even after learning about McLaury’s death, suggesting a troubling pattern of behavior.

Perry gained worldwide fame as Chandler Bing on the beloved sitcom Friends, starring alongside notable actors such as Jennifer Aniston and Courteney Cox. His legacy remains intertwined with both his comedic talent and his struggles with addiction.

The judge is currently deliberating on appropriate sentences for all defendants involved in this case, aiming for a cohesive approach that reflects the severity of their actions.