A federal judge sentenced Kenneth "Kenny" Iwamasa to approximately three years and five months in prison on Wednesday [1], [2].
The sentencing concludes the criminal proceedings regarding the 2023 death of actor Matthew Perry. It marks the final legal chapter for a case that exposed a network of individuals who illegally supplied the star with controlled substances.
Iwamasa, 61, served as Perry's live-in assistant [1]. Prosecutors said Iwamasa conspired to illegally distribute ketamine, which he administered to Perry [1], [3]. This administration resulted in the actor's death [1], [3].
Iwamasa entered a guilty plea in August 2024 [1]. The court proceedings in Los Angeles focused on the betrayal of trust by those Perry relied upon for care and sobriety [3], [4].
This case involved five people who were charged in connection with the actor's death [1]. Another defendant, drug counselor Erik Fleming, previously received a two-year sentence [5].
The legal process has been a prolonged ordeal for the family of the late actor. They said the actions of the assistant were a betrayal of the star [4].
“Kenneth Iwamasa was sentenced to approximately three years and five months in prison.”
The conclusion of this criminal case highlights the legal risks associated with the illicit distribution of prescription anesthetics. By sentencing both a personal assistant and a medical professional, federal prosecutors have signaled a crackdown on 'grey market' ketamine administration that occurs outside of clinical settings.
