Matthew Perry's Assistant Pleads Guilty in Ketamine Death Case
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Kenneth Iwamasa, Matthew Perry's former personal assistant, has pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute ketamine resulting in death. Prosecutors are requesting a prison sentence of three years and five months for his role, which included injecting Perry with fatal doses. Iwamasa is the first of five people indicted to reach a plea deal and served as a witness against his co-defendants.
Facts First
- Kenneth Iwamasa pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute ketamine resulting in death.
- Prosecutors request a 41-month sentence for Iwamasa, who injected Perry with fatal ketamine doses.
- Iwamasa is the first of five indicted individuals to reach a plea deal and testified against co-defendants.
- Other defendants have received sentences ranging from 2.5 to 15 years for their roles.
- Perry's family stated they had known Iwamasa for decades and hired him in 2022.
What Happened
Kenneth Iwamasa, Matthew Perry's former live-in personal assistant, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute ketamine resulting in death. According to court filings, Iwamasa's role expanded to include being a drug messenger and addiction enabler. On October 28, 2023, Iwamasa injected Perry with doses of ketamine that were later determined to be fatal. After the injections, Iwamasa left to run errands and returned to find Perry dead in a Jacuzzi.
Why this Matters to You
This case highlights the severe legal consequences for individuals who enable substance abuse, even in personal or employment relationships. The sentencing of multiple parties—from the assistant to the doctor and dealer—demonstrates a broad legal net for those involved in distributing drugs that cause death. For families dealing with addiction, the statements from Perry's family underscore the critical importance of clear boundaries and communication with caregivers, as they stated Iwamasa knew he could call any family member if Perry made drug demands and that his job would remain secure.
What's Next
A judge will determine Iwamasa's final sentence, with prosecutors requesting three years and five months in prison. The cases against the remaining co-defendants may proceed, potentially relying on the testimony Iwamasa has already provided. This resolution could bring a measure of legal closure to a high-profile case that has drawn attention to the dynamics of celebrity, addiction, and personal responsibility.