Matthew Perry’s Death: ‘Ketamine Queen’ Sentenced to 15 Years in Prison

A Los Angeles federal court sentenced drug dealer Jasveen Sangha, known as the 'Ketamine Queen,' to 15 years in prison on Wednesday for illegally supplying the ketamine that led to the death of actor Matthew Perry in October 2023. The sentencing marks a significant conclusion to the federal case against Sangha, who pleaded guilty last year to five charges, including distribution of a controlled substance resulting in death. The court's decision underscores the legal consequences for those who supply illicit substances that cause fatal overdoses, particularly in high-profile cases involving public figures. The case stems from the tragic death of Matthew Perry, the beloved star of the television series 'Friends,' who was found unresponsive in his Los Angeles home on October 28, 2023. The official cause of death was determined to be the acute effects of ketamine, a dissociative anesthetic with both medical and recreational uses. Federal investigators traced the ketamine in Perry's system back to Sangha, who operated a sophisticated drug distribution network in the Los Angeles area. Her arrest in 2024 and subsequent guilty plea avoided a lengthy trial, bringing a measure of closure to a case that has drawn intense media scrutiny and public interest. This sentencing reflects broader legal and societal efforts to combat the opioid and substance abuse crisis by holding suppliers accountable, even when the user is a consenting adult. While Perry had a documented history of substance abuse struggles, the prosecution successfully argued that Sangha's illegal distribution directly contributed to his death. The 15-year term, handed down by U.S. District Judge John F. Walter, sends a strong deterrent message to drug traffickers operating in the region. The case also highlights the ongoing challenges of substance abuse in the entertainment industry and the devastating personal toll it can take, regardless of fame or success.