Malibu clinic back in business despite doctor's ketamine scandal

According to reports from "The Sun," Malibu Canyon Urgent Care has once again opened its doors to patients seeking help with their weight loss program. On Monday morning, a nurse was spotted manning the reception desk. The matter is particularly intriguing as Dr. Salvador Plasencia, who has been implicated in the death of actor Matthew Perry, also works there.

In December 2023, the Los Angeles County coroner's office stated that the cause of Perry's death was an "acute reaction to ketamine," to which the "Friends" star was allegedly addicted. According to federal investigators, Plasencia and four other suspects profited from the actor's addiction by selling him an increased dose of ketamine. "The Sun" reports that they were allegedly paid $55,000 in cash by the actor for the substance.

The source adds that in addition to ketamine distribution, Dr. Plasencia has also been charged with possession of methamphetamine. Despite serious accusations, Plasencia, who—according to American law—faces up to 120 years in prison, still holds a medical license. His colleague, Chavez, has agreed to cooperate with the prosecution, pleading guilty to the charges.

The arrest of Dr. Salvador Plasencia, allegedly linked to Matthew Perry's death, surprised the public. He was released from jail on Friday, August 16 after posting bail. One of his employees admits that she has never had problems with him at work and considers the doctor to be a good person.

I have worked with him for years. He is a good doctor. I don't know the whole story. I am not involved, but I know him as a person. I know that he is really a good man - her words are quoted by nbclosangeles.com.

Stefan Sacks, the doctor's attorney, shares a similar view. He is confident he will be able to refute the charges against his client. "He is convinced that once the evidence is revealed, he will be exonerated," the lawyer is reported to have said.