According to two law enforcement sources, the criminal investigation into the death of actor Matthew Perry, caused by the acute effects of prescription drug ketamine, is nearing its conclusion. Prosecutors will soon decide whether charges should be filed against individuals involved in providing Perry with the drug, as reported by The Times.

Perry was discovered dead in the hot tub of his Pacific Palisades home on October 28. The Los Angeles County medical examiner found trace amounts of ketamine in Perry's stomach. Moreover, his autopsy revealed that the level of ketamine in his blood was comparable to that used during general anesthesia.

Law enforcement agencies, including the Los Angeles Police Department, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the U.S. Postal Service, have identified several individuals linked to the procurement of ketamine, according to an anonymous law enforcement source. However, no names have been released publicly as part of the ongoing investigation.

The medical examiner's report listed the consumption of ketamine as the cause of Perry's cardiovascular overstimulation and respiratory depression. Additional contributing factors included drowning, coronary artery disease, and the effects of buprenorphine, a medication used to treat opioid-use disorder.

The autopsy report revealed that Perry had been undergoing ketamine infusion therapy every other day, but had reduced his intake. His last known infusion occurred a week and a half prior to his death. The ketamine in his system at the time of death could not have come from the earlier infusion, as the drug typically disappears within three to four hours of ingestion, according to the coroner.

On the day of his death, Perry had been playing pickleball in the morning and was last seen by his live-in assistant at 1:37 p.m. The assistant discovered Perry floating face-down in the hot tub upon returning to his home. Paramedics arrived at the scene and pronounced him dead after moving him out of the water.

Matthew Perry's death prompted an outpouring of tributes from the entertainment industry, including his former "Friends" co-stars. Known for his sarcastic wit, Perry's unique blend of resilience and vulnerability endeared him to fans.

Ketamine, a legal medication used as an anesthetic, has gained attention as an "off-label" treatment for depression and other mental health disorders, particularly at private clinics. However, it is also used recreationally, with some individuals snorting or injecting it for euphoric or dissociative effects.

Experts warn that high doses of ketamine can complicate breathing and strain the heart, especially in individuals with pre-existing conditions like coronary artery disease. The investigation into Perry's cause of death involves a team of physicians and investigators from the LA County coroner's office.

The autopsy report also noted that Perry had been sober for 19 months leading up to his death and had no other drugs in his system. Furthermore, there was no evidence of illicit drugs or paraphernalia at his home. Perry had a history of diabetes, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and a past smoking habit of two packs a day.

The conclusion of the investigation will ultimately rest with federal and potentially local prosecutors, who will determine whether criminal charges will be filed against those connected to the procurement of ketamine in Perry's case.