Los Angeles: A U.S. federal court has handed a 15-year prison sentence to Jasveen Sangha, a drug supplier accused of playing a key role in the death of Friends star Matthew Perry in 2023.
The sentencing was delivered by Judge Sherilyn Peace Garnett, who emphasized the seriousness of Sangha’s involvement in an illegal ketamine distribution network. During the hearing, the judge urged the convicted woman to show “extraordinary resilience” moving forward, referencing her own remarks about personal reform.
Matthew Perry, widely loved for his role as Chandler Bing in Friends, was found unresponsive in a hot tub at his Los Angeles residence in October 2023. Medical findings later confirmed ketamine intoxication as the primary cause, with drowning contributing to his death.
Investigators revealed that while Perry had been undergoing supervised ketamine therapy for mental health treatment, he had also been sourcing the drug illegally. Authorities traced one of the final transactions to Sangha, who allegedly supplied ketamine shortly before his death.
The court heard a heartfelt statement from Perry’s stepfather, Keith Morrison, who described the actor as someone with a rare spark and immense potential. He expressed the family’s continuing grief, saying the loss is felt deeply every day.
Meanwhile, Sangha’s defense lawyer, Mark Geragos, argued that addiction played a central role in the tragedy, claiming Perry’s actions were ultimately beyond anyone’s control. He also criticized the label “Ketamine Queen,” calling it exaggerated and media-driven.
The case involves several individuals linked to the illegal drug supply chain. A doctor who directly sold ketamine to Perry received a prison sentence, while another individual was given home detention for a lesser role. Two others, including a personal aide and an associate of the actor, are yet to be sentenced.
Judge Garnett acknowledged the complexity of assigning fair punishment across all accused but concluded that Sangha’s broader involvement in drug distribution made her more accountable than others.
A major factor in the sentencing was evidence suggesting Sangha continued selling ketamine even after being informed of a previous fatality linked to her supply. A victim’s family member addressed the court, stating that earlier action could have prevented further tragedy.
Before sentencing, Sangha admitted her wrongdoing, calling her actions serious and expressing deep remorse for the consequences.
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