Prosecutors seek 15-year sentence for 'Ketamine Queen' in Matthew Perry's overdose death

Jasveen Sangha admitted to providing the ketamine that killed the 'Friends' actor in 2023.

Mar. 27, 2026 at 4:56pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Federal prosecutors are seeking a 15-year prison sentence for Jasveen Sangha, a woman known as the "Ketamine Queen," who admitted to providing the ketamine that killed actor Matthew Perry in 2023. Sangha pleaded guilty last year to charges related to Perry's fatal overdose, as well as another overdose death. Her defense attorneys have asked for a sentence of time served.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing opioid crisis and the devastating impact of drug trafficking, particularly involving powerful substances like ketamine. It also raises questions about accountability and sentencing for those responsible for overdose deaths.

The details

Sangha admitted to working with another dealer to provide Perry with dozens of vials of ketamine in the weeks before his death in October 2023, including the ketamine that killed him. She also admitted to selling ketamine in connection with another overdose death, that of Cody McLaury, who died hours after Sangha sold him four vials of ketamine in August 2019. Prosecutors say Sangha ran a "high-volume drug trafficking business" out of her North Hollywood residence, storing, packaging, and distributing drugs including ketamine and methamphetamine since at least 2019.

  • In August 2024, Sangha was arrested in connection with Perry's fatal overdose.
  • In October 2024, Sangha pleaded guilty to one count of maintaining a drug-involved premises, three counts of distribution of ketamine, and one count of distribution of ketamine resulting in death or serious bodily injury.
  • On April 8, 2026, Sangha is scheduled to be sentenced in Los Angeles.

The players

Jasveen Sangha

A woman known as the "Ketamine Queen" who admitted to providing the ketamine that killed actor Matthew Perry.

Matthew Perry

The 54-year-old actor known for his role on the television show "Friends," who died from a ketamine overdose in October 2023.

Cody McLaury

A victim who died hours after Sangha sold him four vials of ketamine in August 2019.

Erik Fleming

Another dealer who worked with Sangha to distribute ketamine to Perry.

Kenneth Iwamasa

Perry's live-in personal assistant who repeatedly injected Perry with the ketamine that Sangha supplied.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“She has maintained sustained and exemplary sobriety, and actively engaged in recovery-oriented and rehabilitative programming while in custody, and has tremendously strong family and community support to facilitate successful reentry and reduce the risk of recidivism.”

— Mark Geragos and Alexandra Kazarian, Sangha's attorneys

What’s next

Sangha is scheduled to be sentenced in Los Angeles on April 8, 2026. The other individuals charged in connection with Perry's death, including the other dealer, Perry's personal assistant, and two doctors, have also pleaded guilty and are awaiting sentencing.

The takeaway

This case underscores the devastating impact of the opioid crisis and the need for stronger accountability and rehabilitation measures to address drug trafficking and overdose deaths. It also highlights the importance of addressing the root causes of substance abuse and providing comprehensive support for those struggling with addiction.