Jasveen Sangha Sentenced to 15 Years for Role in Matthew Perry’s Death

A federal judge has sentenced Jasveen Sangha, infamously known as the "Ketamine Queen," to 15 years in prison for her involvement in the death of "Friends" star Matthew Perry. Perry passed away in 2023 after using ketamine, a drug Sangha was convicted of supplying.

Background of the Case

On Wednesday, the court confirmed a 15-year prison sentence, aligning perfectly with the sentencing recommendations from prosecutors. Sangha’s defense team argued that her time served since her August 2024 indictment should suffice, emphasizing her exemplary behavior as an inmate and lack of prior arrests.

Judge’s Comments on Resilience

During the hearing, Judge Sherilyn Peace Garnett urged Sangha to demonstrate "epic resilience," a sentiment she echoed from the defendant’s own reflections on personal growth.

Jasveen Sangha’s Admission of Guilt

Sangha took responsibility in court, expressing regret for her actions. She admitted that her decisions were not merely mistakes but "horrible decisions" that impacted many lives.

Defense Perspective: Blame on Addiction

Mark Geragos, Sangha’s lawyer, contended that addiction, rather than his client, was primarily responsible for Perry’s demise. He claimed that no one could have prevented Perry from his choices. The actor was found dead in his Los Angeles home, where the medical examiner identified ketamine as the leading cause of death, with drowning cited as a secondary factor.

Controversy Surrounding Sentencing Disparity

While considering the broader drug-dealing operation Sangha was involved in, Judge Garnett acknowledged the uniqueness of her role in Perry’s death. Sangha received a longer sentence than her co-defendants, and Geragos criticized this disparity by questioning the logic behind it.

Matthew Perry’s Struggle with Ketamine

Perry had been using ketamine legally under a doctor’s supervision for off-label depression treatment. However, his search for more led him to illegal sources, including Sangha, culminating in a $6,000 purchase just days before his death.

Family Impact: Emotional Testimonies

Perry’s family expressed profound grief in court. His stepfather, Keith Morrison, conveyed feelings of "daily, grinding sadness," while his stepmother noted the widespread pain caused by Sangha’s actions, affecting "hundreds, maybe thousands" of people.

Disputing the "Ketamine Queen" Label

Sangha’s attorney criticized the prosecution for labeling her as the "Ketamine Queen," asserting it was a tactic to garner media attention rather than a factual representation of her identity.

The Scale of Sangha’s Drug Operation

Before the sentencing, the judge emphasized the significant scale of Sangha’s drug enterprise, her continued dealing even after learning of a customer’s death, and her overall culpability in the drug trade. A victim’s family member highlighted that had Sangha ceased her operations upon being informed of the risks, Perry’s tragic fate might have been avoided.

This case serves as a sobering reminder of the impact of addiction, the complexities of accountability, and the tragedy that ensues from the illegal drug trade.