Multiple people have been charged in connection with the overdose death of actor Matthew Perry, US media reports.
Friends actor Perry was found dead in a swimming pool at his California home in October 2023.
The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office attributed his death to the acute effects of ketamine – a sedative that can be used as a recreational drug, as well as to treat depression.
At least one person was arrested in southern California on Thursday, law enforcement sources have told NBC News. Prosecutors are expected to release more details of the allegations against the individuals later today.
A statement from the Morrison family, which includes Perry’s mother and stepfather Keith Morrison, said: “We were and still are heartbroken by Matthew’s death, but it has helped to know law enforcement has taken his case very seriously.
“We look forward to justice taking its course.”
Police said back in May that they were working with federal authorities to investigate the source of the ketamine the 54-year-old actor had consumed.
Perry had been undergoing ketamine infusion therapy to treat depression and anxiety, but his last session took place more than a week prior to his death, a post-mortem report found in December.
The report said the amount of ketamine in his blood was in the range used for general anesthetic during surgery.
Perry was open about his battle with substance abuse and addiction. Pic: AP
The star had been open about his battle with substance abuse and addiction, and also set up a sober living facility for men with similar issues.
A separate foundation was set up after his death to help others struggling with the disease in his memory.
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Other contributing factors to his death included drowning, coronary artery disease and the effects of buprenorphine, which can be used to treat opioid use disorder, the post-mortem said.
Tributes poured in for Perry in the days after his death, including from his co-stars.
Friends actors Matt LeBlanc, Jennifer Aniston, Courteney Cox, David Schwimmer and Lisa Kudrow, were also among the 20 mourners at his funeral in the Hollywood Hills last November.
