Woman Known as ‘Ketamine Queen’ Sentenced to 15 Years in Prison Over Role in Matthew Perry’s Death

A federal judge in Los Angeles sentenced Jasveen Sangha to 15 years in prison for her role in supplying ketamine that contributed to actor Matthew Perry’s death. The ruling followed her guilty plea to multiple drug-related charges, including distribution resulting in death.

Sangha, 42, was described by prosecutors as playing a central role in a network that provided ketamine to Perry in the weeks leading up to his death in October 2023. The sentence aligned with what federal prosecutors had requested and marked the most severe penalty among the five defendants charged in the case.

In court, Sangha acknowledged the gravity of her actions, telling the judge her decisions had “shattered people’s lives.” The judge, citing the scale of her drug operation and her direct involvement in the fatal chain of events, said the sentence reflected both accountability and the broader harm caused.

Who Is the ‘Ketamine Queen’?

Sangha earned the nickname “Ketamine Queen” from federal prosecutors, who alleged she operated a high-end drug distribution network catering to affluent clients in Los Angeles. According to reporting, she maintained a residence in North Hollywood where drugs were stored, packaged, and sold.

Before her arrest in August 2024, Sangha portrayed herself publicly as an art and events curator, sharing images of a globe-trotting lifestyle and connections with celebrities. Authorities later alleged that behind this persona was an extensive drug operation that had been running for years.

A U.S. Attorney Department’s press release detailed that law enforcement found significant quantities of drugs at her residence, including dozens of ketamine vials, methamphetamine pills, and other substances. Prosecutors argued this demonstrated a sustained and organized distribution business rather than isolated transactions.

The Chain of Events Leading to Perry’s Death

Matthew Perry, best known for his role as Chandler Bing on the hit sitcom Friends, was found dead in a hot tub at his Los Angeles home on October 28, 2023. An autopsy determined that the primary cause of death was the acute effects of ketamine, with drowning and other health factors contributing.

According to prosecutors, Sangha supplied ketamine to an intermediary, Erik Fleming, who then passed it to Perry’s live-in assistant, Kenneth Iwamasa. Iwamasa admitted to repeatedly injecting Perry with the drug, including multiple doses on the day of his death.

Court documents described a series of transactions in which dozens of vials were sold, culminating in the lethal dose. Authorities also alleged that after Perry’s death, Sangha instructed others involved to delete messages, highlighting efforts to distance herself from the incident.

Legal Fallout and Broader Implications

Sangha was one of five defendants charged in connection with Perry’s death, all of whom have pleaded guilty. The others include two doctors, Perry’s assistant, and a middleman who helped facilitate the drug purchases. Sentences among the group have varied, with Sangha receiving the longest term.

During sentencing, Perry’s family described the lasting impact of his death, speaking of ongoing grief and loss. His stepfather told the court the family experiences a “daily, grinding sadness,” while others emphasized the wider ripple effects of addiction and drug distribution.

Defense attorneys argued that Perry’s long history of substance use played a significant role, suggesting he would have sought drugs regardless. Prosecutors countered that those who profit from supplying dangerous substances bear responsibility for the consequences. The case underscores ongoing legal efforts to hold drug suppliers accountable when their actions result in fatal overdoses, while also highlighting the complex intersection of addiction, accountability, and criminal justice.