Five people have been charged in connection with the death of Friends star Matthew Perry from an accidental ketamine overdose last October, US attorney Martin Estrada told a press briefing on Thursday.
The charges come after the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) announced in May that they were working with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) on an investigation into the circumstances surrounding Perry’s death.
Mr Estrada said the investigation uncovered a “broad underground criminal network responsible for distributing large quantity of ketamine to Perry and others”.
The 54-year-old actor, who most famously played Chandler Bing in hit US sitcom Friends, was found “unresponsive in the pool at his residence” in Los Angeles on October 28th.
‘They destroyed this moment of joy’: On the frontlines of the Israeli incursion into Syria
Elon Musk denies his role in Trump administration is coming to premature end
‘The feeling burned inside him still’: Love, death and superstition across the boundaries
‘I’m here! Can you hear me?’ One family’s story of death in Gaza
In December, Perry’s death was ruled an accident from the “acute effects of ketamine” – a sedative that can be used as a recreational drug, as well as to treat depression and pain management.
A medical examiner said that Perry had been receiving ketamine infusion therapy for depression and anxiety, with his last known treatment one and a half weeks before his death.
“The ketamine in his system at death could not be from that infusion therapy,” the report said.
Perry was open about his battle with substance abuse and addiction, setting up a sober living facility for men with similar issues.
Following his death, a foundation was set up in his name to help those struggling with addiction. – PA
