Hongchi Xiao was found guilty of gross negligence manslaughter after woman dies from diabetic complications during his workshop
Hongchi Xiao, a 61-year-old alternative healer, has been convicted of gross negligence manslaughter following the death of 71-year-old Danielle Carr-Gomm. The verdict was delivered by a jury at Winchester Crown Court on July 26, after a lengthy trial.
Carr-Gomm, who suffered from Type 1 diabetes, attended a Paida Lajin workshop led by Xiao in Wiltshire in October 2016. Paida Lajin, or “slapping and stretching” therapy, involves slapping oneself to expel toxins. The workshop turned tragic when Carr-Gomm stopped taking her insulin, a decision encouraged by Xiao. She fell severely ill, experiencing symptoms such as weakness and pain, before dying from diabetic ketoacidosis on the fourth day of the retreat.
The court heard that Carr-Gomm had previously attended a similar workshop in Bulgaria where she also stopped her insulin but was persuaded to resume it after falling ill. Xiao’s prior experience with diabetic patients, including a 2015 incident in Sydney where a child died under similar circumstances, was a key part of the prosecution’s case. They argued that Xiao’s knowledge of the dangers associated with stopping insulin meant he had a duty of care which he failed to uphold.
Xiao defended himself by claiming he was not a medical professional and had merely led the workshop. He asserted that he did not advise anyone to stop their medication. However, the jury found that Xiao’s leadership and influence over Carr-Gomm created a duty of care, which he breached by not addressing her deteriorating condition.
The court was informed that Xiao had been previously jailed in Australia for a similar incident, where he was convicted after a child’s death due to halted insulin administration. This history, coupled with his actions during Carr-Gomm’s workshop, led to his conviction in the UK.
Rosemary Ainslie, head of the Crown Prosecution Service’s Special Crime Division, emphasized that Xiao’s failure to act on Carr-Gomm’s worsening health substantially contributed to her death, constituting gross negligence. Det Ch Insp Phil Walker of Wiltshire Police highlighted the extended and distressing nature of the case for Carr-Gomm’s family, who were deeply affected by her loss.
Hongchi Xiao will be sentenced on October 1. He remains in custody while awaiting sentencing.
Analysis
Political
The case highlights regulatory and oversight gaps in alternative medicine practices. It underscores the need for stricter controls and clearer guidelines for practitioners, especially those influencing patients’ health decisions.
Social
The trial has sparked discussions on the safety and regulation of alternative therapies. It brings attention to the potential dangers of unregulated practices and the importance of patient education and medical supervision.
Racial
The racial implications of the case are minimal, but it does touch on issues of cross-cultural practices in healthcare and the need for universal standards to ensure patient safety.
Gender
The case involves a female victim and highlights issues around the vulnerability of older adults to alternative medicine practices. Gender is less central in this case, though it underscores the need for safeguards for all patients.
Economic
The trial may influence the economic aspects of alternative medicine, potentially leading to increased scrutiny and regulation of such practices. It also reflects the broader economic impact of legal proceedings and the costs associated with healthcare negligence.
