Federal prosecutors have made new allegations in the case surrounding the death of Matthew Perry, claiming his former assistant attempted to remove key evidence tied to ketamine use immediately after the incident.
According to court documents cited by TMZ, the assistant, Kenneth Iwamasa, allegedly took multiple steps to conceal materials connected to the case. These actions reportedly included disposing of drug-related items, deleting digital records, and altering access to the actor’s devices.
The claims form part of a broader legal process as prosecutors push for sentencing in a case that has drawn significant public attention since Perry’s death.
Allegations of Destroying Physical and Digital Evidence
Prosecutors allege that Iwamasa directed another individual to dispose of ketamine vials and syringes shortly after Perry was found unresponsive. The filing also claims that documents connected to ketamine prescriptions were shredded, including a note referencing a medical source.
In addition to physical items, investigators say digital evidence was also targeted. This allegedly included deleting information from devices and changing passwords, actions that prosecutors argue were intended to obstruct the investigation.
The court filing further claims that Iwamasa later admitted to
“cleaning up the scene”
during a phone call, though the extent and context of that statement remain part of the legal proceedings.
Contradictory Statements Raise Questions
Another key point raised by prosecutors is the claim that Iwamasa provided inconsistent accounts during the investigation. Initially, he allegedly denied certain actions, including administering ketamine to Perry on the day of his death.
Later statements reportedly suggested that Perry had hidden ketamine bottles himself, a claim prosecutors say is not supported by evidence. These contradictions have become a central issue in the case, as investigators attempt to establish a clear timeline of events.
Prosecutors argue that these actions go beyond simple assistance and instead represent a breach of trust, particularly given the assistant’s role in supporting Perry during his struggles with addiction.
Legal Proceedings and Potential Sentence
Iwamasa previously pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute ketamine resulting in death in 2024. The current filings are part of the sentencing phase, where prosecutors are recommending a prison term of approximately 41 months.
The court is expected to make a final decision soon, with sentencing scheduled this week. The outcome could set a precedent for how similar cases involving controlled substances and third-party involvement are handled in the future.
While the defense has argued that Iwamasa was acting under direction, prosecutors have strongly pushed back, stating that his actions were not justified and contributed to the concealment of critical evidence.
A Case That Highlights Broader Concerns
The developments in this case have renewed discussions about accountability in situations involving substance use and celebrity care. Perry, best known for his role on Friends, had been open about his struggles with addiction, making the circumstances surrounding his death particularly sensitive.
The allegations against his assistant underscore the importance of proper oversight and responsibility, especially when individuals are entrusted with supporting vulnerable individuals.
At the same time, the case raises questions about how evidence is handled in high-profile investigations and the legal consequences of attempting to interfere with that process.
