In a tragic turn of events last year, we witnessed the shocking death of Friends star Matthew Perry. Later, the cause of death was revealed to be a ketamine overdose. This led to an investigation that implicated several individuals allegedly involved in the supply of the drug. Now, almost a year later, there has been another major breakthrough in the investigation, as one of two doctors charged in the case has pleaded guilty on Wednesday to conspiring to distribute the surgical anesthetic ketamine. Yes, you read that right. This is the third person to plead guilty in the case and below is all you need to know about it. 

Doctor Pleads Guilty in Matthew Perry Drug Overdose Case

For those unaware, following the death of Matthew Perry, famously known as Chandler Bing from Friends, an investigation was launched to trace the supply chain that brought ketamine to the actor. He was found dead on October 28, 2023, at his house in Pacific Palisades. Initially reported to have been found in his hot tub, it was later confirmed that the cause of death was a drug overdose. Dr. Mark Chavez, 54, has now become the third person to plead guilty in connection with the tragic event.

Dr. Mark Chavez of San Diego, according to AP News, has pleaded guilty in the case. He signed a plea agreement with prosecutors in August, who offered him and two others lesser charges in exchange for their cooperation as the investigation continues to target two key suspects believed to be more responsible for Matthew Perry’s death. One of these suspects is a doctor, while the other is a dealer allegedly known as the "Ketamine Queen of Los Angeles."

During the trial, Chavez spoke up when the prosecutor was describing Matthew Perry’s death. “Are you pleading guilty because you did the things the prosecutors described?” Judge Sherilyn Peace Garnett asked Chavez. “Yes, your honor,” he responded. His lawyer, Matthew Binninger, briefly addressed reporters, stating, “Mark entered his plea of guilty, and that’s now public record. You accept responsibility and then await sentencing."

Dr. Chavez remains free on bond until his sentencing, scheduled for April 2. He has surrendered his medical license and turned over his passport, among other conditions he must follow. While the judge clarified that she is not bound by any plea agreement and could sentence him to up to 10 years in prison, Chavez is expected to receive a reduced sentence due to his cooperation with the prosecution and the plea deal.

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