One of the individuals taken into custody related to the death of Friends actor Matthew Perry is reportedly a well-known drug dealer, dubbed ‘The Ketamine Queen’ of North Hollywood.
On Thursday (August 15), five suspects were detained for allegedly enabling Perry’s ketamine usage, which led to his untimely death last year on October 28.
During a press briefing, the US Department of Justice disclosed that a seven-month investigation uncovered ‘a broad underground criminal network’ that ‘took advantage’ of Perry.
This network reportedly included Perry’s live-in assistant, several medical professionals, and a San Fernando Valley drug dealer known as ‘The Ketamine Queen.’
The 41-year-old’s true identity is Jasveen Sangha, a dual citizen of the United States and Great Britain.
Sangha is currently facing nine charges connected to Perry’s death, such as conspiracy to distribute ketamine, maintaining a drug-involved premises, and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and ketamine.
Although Sangha pleaded not guilty, if convicted on all charges, she could face a life sentence. A judge denied her request for bail, and she remains in custody awaiting her next hearing on October 15.
Prosecutors allege Sangha has been distributing ketamine and other illicit substances from her North Hollywood ‘stash house’ since at least 2019.
The US Attorney for California’s Central District, Martin Estrada, described her residence as a ‘drug-selling emporium’ during a news conference on Thursday.
A search of her home reportedly uncovered approximately 80 vials of ketamine, along with methamphetamine, cocaine, and Xanax.
Prosecutors also accused Sangha of being ‘aware of the danger of ketamine,’ citing an incident in August 2019 when she allegedly sold ketamine to Cody McLaury, who died from an overdose hours later.
After McLaury’s relative informed Sangha that her ketamine had caused his death, she reportedly searched on Google: “Can ketamine be listed as a cause of death [?]”
Another suspect charged in relation to Perry’s death, Erik Fleming, stated in an indictment that Sangha ‘only deal[s] with high end and celebs.’
The BBC reports that the drug dealer used to flaunt her lavish lifestyle on social media, sharing posts from parties and her luxurious trips to Japan and Mexico.
Her past social media activity reportedly indicates she is a well-connected Hollywood socialite.
Sangha is accused of selling ketamine to Perry on October 24, 2023, which resulted in his death.
The actor was discovered dead in a hot tub at his Los Angeles home on October 28, 2023. Ketamine traces were found in his system, and at the time, his cause of death was considered to be an accidental overdose.
If you need friendly, confidential advice about drugs, you can reach American Addiction Centers at (313) 209-9137, available 24/7, or contact them through their website.