Doctors linked to Matthew Perry's death still allowed to prescribe medication

Two doctors connected to the drug-related death of 'Friends' star Matthew Perry are still permitted to prescribe medication, despite facing legal charges, as reported by The Mirror. 

Mark Chavez, 54, and Salvador Plasencia, 42, have been accused of being involved in the illegal distribution of ketamine to Matthew Perry, who passed away on 28 October, 2023, at the age of 54, due to the "acute effects" of the drug.

However, according to TMZ, an investigation by the Medical Board of California has concluded, and both doctors have kept their medical licenses without any restrictions. A statement from the board confirmed: "Both (their) licenses are current and active and the Board has not imposed any restrictions on them."

On the Medical Board of California's website, the doctors' licenses are displayed without any warnings or limitations. Chavez has a "renewed and current" license, valid until 30 June 2026, while Plasencia's license is also in good standing, with an expiration date of 31 October.

Recently, on Thursday, the US Department of Justice announced that Plasencia is facing charges for conspiracy and multiple counts related to the illegal distribution of ketamine, as well as charges for tampering with federal investigation documents.

In a plea agreement, Chavez admitted to one count of conspiracy to distribute the anaesthetic, acknowledging that he had engaged in off-market ketamine transactions with Plasencia for Matthew Perry's use. The actor is believed to have paid more than $55,000 in cash to two individuals shortly before his untimely death.

US Attorney Martin Estrada strongly criticized the two last week, stating: "These defendants cared more about profiting off of Mr Perry than caring for his well-being." He further remarked on the actor's situation: "Matthew Perry's journey began with unscrupulous doctors who abused their position of trust because they saw him as a payday, to street dealers who gave him ketamine in unmarked vials."