Chavez was one of five people charged in connection with Perry’s death, which occurred in October 2023. Another physician, Dr. Salvador Plasencia, and alleged drug supplier Jasveen Sangha, known as the “ketamine queen,” have pleaded not guilty and are set to go to trial in March.
Authorities claim that Plasencia bought ketamine from Chavez and referred to Perry in text messages as a “moron,” discussing how much Perry would pay for the drug. Plasencia allegedly administered ketamine to Perry at the actor’s home, and Perry’s personal assistant, Kenneth Iwamasa, admitted to injecting Perry with the drug. Both Iwamasa and an alleged middleman, who acquired ketamine from Sangha, have also pleaded guilty.
Chavez admitted to securing ketamine under a fraudulent prescription, knowing it was intended for Perry. He confessed to providing the drug to Plasencia, acknowledging that it should have been administered with proper medical oversight.
Perry, best known for his role as Chandler Bing on Friends, had long battled substance abuse. He had been using ketamine legally for depression treatment but sought additional supplies, leading him to Plasencia. Perry’s death was attributed to “acute effects” of ketamine and other factors that caused him to lose consciousness and drown in his hot tub, according to a December 2023 autopsy report.
Chavez is cooperating with prosecutors in their case against Plasencia and Sangha, which led to a reduced charge in exchange for his guilty plea. He has surrendered his medical license and remains out on bond awaiting sentencing.