A woman known as the “Ketamine Queen” has been sentenced to 15 years in prison for her role in the fatal overdose of actor Matthew Perry, marking one of the most significant developments in the high-profile case. Jayvee Sangha, 42, pleaded guilty to several drug-related offences, including distributing ketamine that ultimately led to Perry’s death. The sentencing reflects the seriousness with which the court viewed her involvement in supplying the fatal dose.
Sangha admitted to running a narcotics distribution operation from her residence in North Hollywood, Los Angeles, effectively using her home as a “stash house” for illegal drugs. Investigators revealed that she played a central role in supplying ketamine through a network of intermediaries, enabling the substance to reach Perry despite medical restrictions.
The court heard that Matthew Perry, widely known for his role in the television series Friends, had been undergoing supervised ketamine therapy as part of treatment for depression. However, when he sought higher doses beyond what doctors were willing to prescribe, he turned to illicit sources. Prosecutors argued that this vulnerability was exploited by those involved in the drug supply chain.
According to the case details, Sangha provided multiple vials of ketamine, which were passed through intermediaries before reaching Perry. His personal assistant was reportedly involved in administering several injections in the hours leading up to his death. Perry was later found unresponsive in a hot tub at his Los Angeles home in October 2023, with an autopsy confirming that ketamine-induced unconsciousness led to drowning.
The judge overseeing the case imposed the 15-year sentence in line with the prosecution’s recommendation, rejecting arguments from the defence seeking a lighter penalty. Sangha had already been in custody since August 2024, but the court determined that a substantial sentence was warranted given the gravity of the offence.
Further details revealed that Sangha was aware the drugs were intended for Perry and had prior involvement in another overdose incident in 2019, reinforcing concerns about a pattern of behaviour. The broader investigation also uncovered a network of individuals, including medical professionals, who have pleaded guilty in connection with the case.
The outcome underscores the legal consequences of exploiting substance dependency and highlights the risks associated with the misuse of controlled medications outside regulated medical supervision.
