A former assistant to the late actor Matthew Perry has been sentenced to more than three years in federal prison for her role in providing him with the ketamine that ultimately led to his death. The sentencing took place on Monday, marking a significant development in the legal aftermath of the beloved “Friends” star’s passing.
Ariana Castro, 30, was found guilty of one count of distribution of a controlled substance and one count of aiding and abetting in the distribution of a controlled substance. Prosecutors argued that Castro knowingly administered ketamine injections to Perry, despite the drug’s known risks and potential for abuse. The ketamine was reportedly obtained by Perry, but Castro was implicated in facilitating its use and providing the injections.
During the sentencing hearing, Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah T. Bowles detailed how Castro had access to the ketamine and administered it to Perry on multiple occasions, including in the days leading up to his death in October 2023. The prosecution emphasized that Castro, by administering the drug, contributed to the circumstances that led to Perry’s fatal overdose. While Castro did not directly procure the ketamine for Perry, her role in administering it was central to the charges.
Matthew Perry, who was open about his struggles with addiction throughout his life, was found dead in his Los Angeles home. The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office determined his cause of death was the acute effects of ketamine, with drowning and coronary artery disease also listed as contributing factors. The autopsy report indicated that Perry had high levels of ketamine in his system at the time of his death, far exceeding therapeutic levels. This suggested the ketamine was likely administered shortly before his passing, and not as part of any prescribed medical treatment.
The investigation into Perry’s death quickly shifted to those who had access to him and may have provided him with substances. Castro, who had worked for Perry for several years, became a key figure in the inquiry. Evidence presented in court suggested that Castro was aware of Perry’s ketamine use and had been instructed to obtain it for him on at least one occasion, although the defense argued that Perry was an adult who made his own choices regarding substance use.
During the trial, the defense team for Castro attempted to paint a picture of a devoted assistant trying to help a troubled individual. They argued that Castro was unaware of the full extent of the danger she was putting Perry in and that her actions were motivated by a desire to assist him, albeit misguidedly. However, the prosecution countered by emphasizing the inherent dangers of illicit drug administration and the responsibility that comes with handling controlled substances.
U.S. District Judge Michael W. Fitzgerald, who presided over the sentencing, acknowledged the complex nature of the case, balancing the tragic loss of a public figure with the actions of the defendant. He stated that Castro’s actions, while not directly causing Perry’s death in a premeditated way, were a significant contributing factor and warranted a substantial prison sentence.
The sentence handed down to Castro includes 37 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release. This period will include mandatory substance abuse treatment and mental health counseling. The judge stressed the importance of deterring others from engaging in similar conduct, highlighting the severe consequences of drug distribution, especially when it involves substances like ketamine that can have life-threatening effects.
Family members of Matthew Perry were present during the sentencing and expressed their grief and the profound impact of his loss. While the legal proceedings offer a form of closure for the case, the emotional toll on those who knew and loved Perry remains immense.
This sentencing is a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges surrounding substance abuse and the legal ramifications for those who facilitate or distribute illicit drugs, even in seemingly personal contexts. The case has drawn significant attention, underscoring the sensitive intersection of celebrity, addiction, and the legal system.
Source: NBC News
NBC News: BREAKING: Matthew Perry’s former assistant sentenced to more than three years in prison for giving the actor ketamine injections that left him dead of an overdose.. #breaking
— @NBCNews May 1, 2026
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