A woman who admitted to providing actor Matthew Perry with ketamine, resulting in his death in 2023, was sentenced to 15 years in federal prison by a judge on Wednesday. Jasveen Sangha, 42, was described by Judge Sherilyn Peace Garnett as needing to demonstrate significant resilience, a sentiment echoed by Sangha herself during the hearing.
Sangha’s involvement in Perry’s death and her wider drug distribution activities were highlighted by the judge in determining her sentence, which is expected to exceed the combined total of her four co-defendants. The sentencing marked a significant moment in the 2.5-year investigation and legal proceedings following the tragic passing of the 54-year-old actor, best known for his role as Chandler Bing on the popular TV show “Friends.”
During the court hearing, Keith Morrison, Perry’s stepfather and NBC’s “Dateline” correspondent, expressed the ongoing grief felt by Perry’s family, emphasizing the loss of the actor’s potential for a continued career. Sangha, prior to her sentencing, acknowledged her shame and the devastating impact of her actions on individuals and their families.
Prosecutors portrayed Sangha as a key figure in a high-end drug operation, dubbing her the “Ketamine Queen” for her lavish lifestyle sustained by drug sales to elite clients. While the prosecution requested a 15-year sentence, Sangha’s defense argued for leniency based on her lack of prior criminal history, good behavior in custody, and the unlikelihood of her returning to drug trafficking.
Perry was discovered deceased in his Los Angeles residence, with the medical examiner attributing his death primarily to ketamine consumption. Sangha’s attorney, Mark Geragos, attributed Perry’s demise to addiction rather than Sangha’s actions, underscoring the actor’s determination to obtain the drug beyond legal channels.
Sangha’s guilty plea encompassed charges related to drug distribution and involvement in Perry’s death, distinguishing her from her co-defendants. The judge deliberated on the varying degrees of culpability among the defendants, acknowledging the complexity of sentencing considerations.
Sangha’s sentencing was marked by emotional statements from Perry’s family members and supporters, highlighting the profound impact of her actions. The judge emphasized the gravity of Sangha’s drug enterprise and her continued involvement in drug dealing despite knowledge of the harm caused, underscoring the need for accountability.
As the legal proceedings concluded, the judge expressed the hope that Perry’s family might find a sense of justice amidst the sorrow and loss caused by the tragic events.
