Multiple people are now facing federal charges in connection with the ketamine death of “Friends” star Matthew Perry, ABC News has learned.
The arrests were made in an early morning operation Thursday and include a doctor, according to law enforcement sources.
The charges will be announced at a news briefing later on Thursday with the U.S. attorney for Los Angeles and the head of the Drug Enforcement Administration.
Perry died on Oct. 28, 2023, at the age of 54. He was discovered unresponsive in a jacuzzi at his Los Angeles home, police said. An autopsy report revealed he died from the acute effects of ketamine.
Perry had high levels of ketamine in his blood, likely lapsed into unconsciousness and then went underwater, according to the autopsy report.
He was reported to have been receiving ketamine infusions for depression and anxiety, with the most recent therapy coming 1 1/2 weeks before his death, according to the autopsy report. However, the medical examiner wrote the ketamine in his system at death could not have been from that infusion therapy, as ketamine’s half-life is three to four hours or less.
His method of intake was listed in the report as unknown.
In this March 15, 2017, file photo, actor Matthew Perry attends a premiere in Beverly Hills, Calif.
Jason Laveris/FilmMagic via Getty Images, FILE
The autopsy report also listed drowning, coronary artery disease and buprenorphine effects as contributing factors not related to the immediate cause of death. The manner of death was ruled an accident.
Prescription drugs and loose pills were found at his home, but nothing near where he was found dead, according to the autopsy report.
Multiple agencies have been investigating in the months since his death, including the DEA, Los Angeles Police Department, United States Postal Service and the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
Perry was known for playing Chandler Bing on the hit sitcom “Friends,” which ran from 1994 to 2004.
This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.
Sources have reported that arrests have been made in connection to the drug investigation related to the death of actor Matthew Perry, who passed away from a ketamine overdose earlier this year. The arrests come after an extensive investigation by law enforcement officials, who have been working tirelessly to uncover the circumstances surrounding Perry’s tragic death.
Ketamine, a powerful anesthetic commonly used in veterinary medicine, has gained popularity in recent years as a recreational drug due to its hallucinogenic effects. However, its misuse can have deadly consequences, as evidenced by Perry’s untimely passing.
The arrests made in connection to Perry’s death highlight the seriousness of the issue of drug abuse and the devastating impact it can have on individuals and their loved ones. It serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of experimenting with illicit substances and the importance of seeking help if struggling with addiction.
The investigation into Perry’s death is ongoing, and authorities are continuing to gather evidence and interview witnesses to piece together what led to the actor’s fatal overdose. The arrests made in connection to the case are a significant step towards holding those responsible for supplying the drugs that ultimately led to Perry’s death accountable.
It is crucial for individuals to be aware of the risks associated with drug use and to seek help if they or someone they know is struggling with addiction. There are resources available for those in need of support, including hotlines, treatment centers, and support groups.
As the investigation into Matthew Perry’s death continues, it serves as a sobering reminder of the dangers of drug abuse and the importance of taking steps to prevent further tragedies. Our thoughts are with Perry’s loved ones during this difficult time, and we hope that his passing will serve as a wake-up call for those who may be struggling with addiction.
