An unlicensed acupuncturist has been found guilty of causing serious injury to an 86-year-old pensioner.
Horsham District Council’s investigation found that, in 2017, the client had visited the unlicensed acupuncturist, who had hoped to find relief for her hip, but instead was left with a serious debilitating burn injury to her ankle, permanent scarring and loss of mobility. Ms Weinx should have not treated the pensioner, but referred her to a licenced professional.
The lady was not aware that the law requires an operator’s licence to be displayed, and was shocked to find the business uninsured, unlicensed and operating illegally.
Worthing Magistrates rejected the not guilty plea, concluding Ms Yao caused an injury of significant harm, and did not have a risk assessment in place, which put the general public in place.
Ms Yao Wenix was sentenced to twenty six weeks imprisonment, suspended for 12 months and fined £6,000.
Commenting on the prosecution, Horsham District Council Cabinet Member for Community Matters and Wellbeing, Cllr Tricia Youtan said: “This was an extremely shocking case which resulted in severe injuries. Putting the public’s health and safety first is key for us as a council and we take offences like this very seriously. It is heartening that the courts share our views.”
“Our Environmental Health team will continue to do all within its power to make sure that local businesses comply so that the public are not exposed to harmful risks.”
