The family of Matthew Perry has released a statement following the criminal charges brought against five individuals linked to the “Friends” actor’s death last October when he was 54.

“We remain heartbroken over Matthew’s passing, but it’s comforting to know that law enforcement is taking this case seriously,” the Morrison family mentioned in a statement to YSL News. They added, “We anticipate that justice will be served and appreciate the outstanding efforts from all the investigative agencies involved in Matthew’s case. We hope this sends a strong message to those who supply dangerous substances.”

Keith Morrison, a well-known correspondent for “Dateline,” is Matthew Perry’s stepfather, having married his mother, Suzanne Perry, in 1981.

Morrison previously discussed the emotional toll of Perry’s death during a March appearance on “Making Space with Hoda Kotb,” saying the loss is particularly challenging for his mother, Suzanne.

“Many have told me that grief doesn’t fade. It’s a constant presence in your life, and every day brings new challenges related to it,” he shared with Kotb.

“Towards the end of his life, Matthew and his mother were very close, frequently messaging each other and sharing personal thoughts that most middle-aged men might not typically share with their mothers,” Morrison reflected. “He expressed happiness more than he had in a long time, which is comforting to know. Unfortunately, he didn’t have the chance to experience his later years, which feels deeply unfair.”

Morrison characterized Perry’s battles with addiction as a “disease” that is tough to overcome. He and Suzanne Perry have launched The Matthew Perry Foundation to support organizations that aid individuals struggling with substance abuse.

Five individuals allegedly involved in Matthew Perry’s death

On Thursday, the Department of Justice revealed that a doctor and an alleged drug dealer from Los Angeles had been arrested for their suspected involvement in Perry’s death in October 2023.

Dr. Salvador Plasencia, 42, and 41-year-old Jasveen Sangha, referred to in the DOJ’s press release as the “Ketamine Queen” of North Hollywood, are facing 18 criminal charges related to “distributing ketamine to Perry in his final weeks.”

Other individuals implicated in the case include Perry’s live-in assistant Kenneth Iwamasa, 59; Dr. Mark Chavez, 54; and Eric Fleming, 54, who was described as an acquaintance of Perry.

Iwamasa and Fleming pleaded guilty earlier this month to one count of conspiracy to distribute ketamine; Fleming also admitted to an additional charge of distribution of ketamine resulting in death. Chavez has indicated he will plead guilty to conspiracy to distribute ketamine, according to the DOJ.

Iwamasa may face up to 15 years in prison, while Fleming’s charges could lead to a maximum of 25 years. Chavez, who is scheduled for arraignment on August 30, is facing up to 10 years behind bars.

Authorities assert that on October 28, 2023—the day Perry passed away— Iwamasa administered an injection of ketamine to Perry, a practice he had previously done multiple times without the necessary medical credentials. The ketamine involved in Perry’s death was reportedly provided with syringes and instructions from Plasencia, with drugs supplied by Fleming and Sangha, according to officials.

When Perry was found dead on October 28, 2023, the Los Angeles Fire Department responded to his home in Pacific Palisades at 4:07 p.m., discovering “an adult male unconscious in a stand-alone jacuzzi.” He was declared dead by responders at 4:17 p.m.

In December, the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s office released an autopsy report, which YSL News acquired. Perry’s death was ruled accidental, primarily caused by “the acute effects of ketamine.” Other contributing factors included drowning, coronary artery disease, and the influence of buprenorphine.

Buprenorphine is described as “an opioid-like medication used in the treatment of opioid addiction as well as for managing both acute and chronic pain,” according to Perry’s comprehensive autopsy report. It was noted that there were no indications of “fatal trauma, and no foul play was suspected,” as per the report.

If you or someone you know may require assistance with alcohol dependence, you can reach out to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357) or visit https://findtreatment.gov.