Five charged in connection with death of Friends star Matthew Perry

By Ellie Iorizzo, PA Los Angeles Correspondent

Five people have been charged in connection with the death of Friends star Matthew Perry from an accidental ketamine overdose last October, United States Attorney Martin Estrada told a press briefing.

The charges come after the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) announced in May that they were working with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) on an investigation into the circumstances surrounding Perry’s death.

Mr Estrada said the investigation uncovered a “broad underground criminal network responsible for distributing large quantity of ketamine to Perry and others”.

The 54-year-old actor, who most famously played Chandler Bing in hit US sitcom Friends, was found “unresponsive in the pool at his residence” in Los Angeles on October 28.

In December, Perry’s death was ruled an accident from the “acute effects of ketamine” – a sedative that can be used as a recreational drug, as well as to treat depression and pain management.

A medical examiner said that Perry had been receiving ketamine infusion therapy for depression and anxiety, with his last known treatment one-and-a-half weeks prior to his death.

“The ketamine in his system at death could not be from that infusion therapy,” the report said.

Perry was open about his battle with substance abuse and addiction, setting up a sober living facility for men with similar issues.

Following his death, a foundation was set up in his name to help those struggling with addiction.