Matthew Perry’s stepmother Debbie Perry spoke in court – with clear demands.
Almost three years after the death of Matthew Perry, the case is once again in the public eye. In a sentencing hearing, his stepmother Debbie Perry called for the maximum sentence for dealer Jasveen Sangha, known as the “Ketamine Queen.”
The actor, who became internationally known through “Friends,” struggled with addiction problems for a long time, which he discussed openly in interviews. In October 2023, Perry died at the age of 54 from the acute effects of his consumption, aggravated by an accident in the hot tub. His family describes the loss as a deep turning point, the consequences of which are still felt today.
Who is Jasveen Sangha?
Jasveen Sangha is referred to as the “Ketamine Queen” in media reports. She is one of five defendants in this case who, according to People, formed a network of suppliers that took advantage of Perry’s addiction. Sangha admitted at trial that he sold dozens of vials of liquid ketamine to Perry in multiple transactions in October 2023. She has been in federal custody since her arrest in August 2024 and, as a first-time offender, is pleading for her pretrial detention to be counted toward a possible prison sentence.
Background of the case
Matthew Perry’s stepmother, Debbie Perry, said at the hearing: “We hope this sentence not only brings justice to my family, but also sends a clear message to everyone that selling drugs to vulnerable people has consequences.” She also emphasized: “The loss of my stepson is irreparable. No judgment can ease the pain, but it can at least show responsibility.”
According to the indictment, Sangha is said to have sold the actor ketamine several times – including doses that ultimately led to his death. The accusation that she repeatedly and specifically sold to a person at risk of addiction is particularly serious. The prosecution is demanding a prison sentence of up to 15 years, while the defense is arguing for a lighter sentence, citing Sangha’s lack of criminal record.
Perry’s family sees the trial as an example of an allegedly unscrupulous network that specifically exploits addictions. At the same time, they see the opportunity to send a clear signal against illegal drug networks and to raise awareness of the risks of drug use.
