Fiona Nanna, ForeMedia News

6 minutes read. Updated 10:21PM GMT Mon, 19August, 2024

Jasveen Sangha, a figure now notoriously known as the “Ketamine Queen,” has been thrust into the global spotlight following her indictment by U.S. authorities. The American-British dual-national is one of five individuals accused of supplying ketamine to “Friends” star Matthew Perry, allegedly exploiting the actor’s struggle with addiction, ultimately leading to his tragic overdose death in October 2023.

Sangha, who appeared in court wearing a Nirvana jumper, pleaded not guilty to nine charges, including conspiracy to distribute ketamine and distribution of ketamine resulting in death. Despite her pleas, U.S. officials denied her bail, ensuring she remains in custody until her trial in October.

A ‘Drug-Selling Emporium’ in North Hollywood

Sangha’s North Hollywood residence, described by U.S. Attorney Martin Estrada as a “drug-selling emporium,” allegedly served as the operational hub for her illicit activities. Authorities, during a raid, reportedly discovered over 80 vials of ketamine, alongside substantial quantities of methamphetamine, cocaine, and Xanax. The indictment refers to this residence as the “Sangha Stash House,” where she is accused of packaging and distributing drugs to an elite clientele, including celebrities.

A Lavish Lifestyle Amidst Criminal Allegations

While Sangha’s alleged involvement in the drug trade is under scrutiny, her social media portrays a different image—a jet-setting lifestyle adorned with luxury and high-profile social interactions. Shortly after Perry’s overdose, Sangha posted images of her lavish lifestyle, including extravagant parties and travels to Japan and Mexico. Her social media activity continued up until the day before her arrest, with posts suggesting a visit to the hairdresser to dye her hair purple. A spokesperson for the U.S. Attorney’s Office confirmed the authenticity of these posts.

The Alleged Connection to Matthew Perry

Prosecutors allege that Sangha’s connection to Perry began through co-defendant Dr. Salvador Plasencia, who initially learned of Perry’s interest in ketamine. Dr. Plasencia, who allegedly sourced the drug from Dr. Mark Chavez—another defendant previously operating a ketamine clinic—introduced Sangha to Perry’s live-in assistant, Kenneth Iwamasa. Sangha is accused of supplying ketamine directly to Iwamasa, with full knowledge of its potential lethality.

According to U.S. Attorney Estrada, “These defendants cared more about profiting off of Mr. Perry than caring for his well-being,” emphasizing that Sangha was a major supplier of ketamine not just to Perry, but to others as well.

Additional Allegations and Potential Consequences

The indictment against Sangha is not her first brush with allegations of deadly consequences tied to her drug distribution. U.S. authorities have linked her to another overdose death in 2019. Sangha is alleged to have sold ketamine to Cody McLaury, who died from an overdose shortly after purchasing the drug. Court documents reveal that Sangha was contacted by McLaury’s family, with a text message accusing her of being responsible for his death. Investigators claim Sangha later searched online for information about whether ketamine could be listed as a cause of death, indicating her awareness of the drug’s dangers.

If convicted of all charges related to Perry’s death, Sangha faces a minimum of 10 years in federal prison, with the possibility of a life sentence. Additionally, she will also face charges in connection to McLaury’s death.

The case against Jasveen Sangha highlights the ongoing issue of celebrity-targeted drug distribution and the broader consequences of illicit drug trade. It underscores the vulnerabilities of public figures in the grip of addiction, and the often-lethal consequences of exploiting these vulnerabilities for profit. As the legal proceedings unfold, the world watches closely, reflecting on the tragic intersection of fame, addiction, and criminal exploitation.