Hongchi Xiao Jailed for Woman’s Death in Slapping Therapy Workshop
An alternative healer has been sentenced to 10 years in prison for the gross negligence manslaughter of 71-year-old Danielle Carr-Gomm. Hongchi Xiao, 61, was found guilty of the tragic incident that occurred during a slapping therapy workshop at Cleeve House in Seend, Wiltshire, back in October 2016. Xiao, who claimed his method could cure various diseases, including diabetes, was sentenced today at Winchester Crown Court.
Woman’s Desperate Search for Healing
Danielle Carr-Gomm, a vegetarian diagnosed with type 1 diabetes in 1998, attended Xiao’s paida lajin therapy event in search of alternative treatments. Despite her fear of needles, she had stopped taking insulin, believing in Xiao’s methods to detoxify the body through slapping. Prosecutors revealed that Xiao knew the risks involved but failed to seek medical assistance when she fell critically ill and ultimately passed away due to diabetic ketoacidosis.
Tragic Consequences of Misguided Healing
The court learned that Xiao had a history of promoting his unverified healing techniques, leading to previous manslaughter convictions. His lack of medical qualifications and training did not deter him from encouraging others to abandon traditional medications in favor of his methods. Witness testimonies described Mrs. Carr-Gomm’s deteriorating health during the workshop, emphasizing the dangers of unregulated alternative therapies.
Impact on Loved Ones
After her passing, Matthew Carr-Gomm, Danielle’s son, expressed his mother’s dedication to finding alternative treatments for her diabetes. Despite her healthy lifestyle and zest for life, she fell victim to the false promises of self-healing. Detective Chief Inspector Phil Walker commended the imprisonment of Xiao, highlighting the dangers of unqualified individuals promoting risky practices to vulnerable individuals.
Danielle’s story serves as a reminder of the risks involved in unproven alternative therapies and the importance of seeking professional medical advice for serious health conditions. Let us honor her memory by advocating for evidence-based treatments and raising awareness about the dangers of pseudoscientific healing methods.
