Latest Doctor sentenced to house arrest after Matthew Perry's death
A Californian doctor has been sentenced to eight months' house arrest and 300 hours of community service in connection with the death of former "Friends" star Matthew Perry. The 55-year-old doctor was spared a prison sentence, US media reported, citing the decision by a court in Los Angeles. He had pleaded guilty to procuring the anesthetic ketamine for the addicted actor.
17.12.2025, 11:16
SDA
According to the indictment, the doctor from San Diego allegedly sold a colleague in Los Angeles a large quantity of ketamine for Perry using a forged prescription, among other things. The 44-year-old doctor from Los Angeles delivered it directly to the actor - and was sentenced to two and a half years in prison at the beginning of December.
The doctor who has now been sentenced got off lightly because, according to his lawyer, he admitted his guilt early on and cooperated with the authorities. He also willingly surrendered his medical license. The lawyer therefore spoke of a fair and just sentence.
Serious accusations against doctors and dealers
After Perry's death, the police and public prosecutor's office made serious allegations against five people arrested - among other things, they are said to have exploited his addiction problems in order to enrich themselves. In addition to the two doctors, the others have now also admitted their guilt, including one of the actor's assistants and a drug supplier. Sentences in these cases are expected in 2026.
The dealer known as the "Ketamine Queen" faces the longest sentence of up to 65 years in prison. According to the public prosecutor's office, the woman supplied the dose of the anaesthetic ketamine that led to the actor's death.
Death in the hot tub
Perry was found dead in the hot tub of his Los Angeles home on October 28, 2023 at the age of 54. The death of the actor, who had become famous worldwide with the TV series "Friends" about six young friends in New York, which was produced in the USA from 1994 to 2004, caused worldwide consternation and sadness.
Previously, Perry had repeatedly spoken publicly about his battle with addiction. According to reports, he had undergone ketamine therapy under medical supervision for depression and anxiety. In addition, he is said to have obtained the drug on the black market.
According to the coroner, Perry died from the effects of ketamine use. Other factors included heart disease and the effects of a drug used to treat opioid addiction. His death was ruled accidental.
