Alternative Therapy Boss Guilty of Manslaughter After Participant Dies
Hongxhi Xiao, 61, a Californian who ran an alternative therapy workshop in Wiltshire, has been found guilty of manslaughter by gross negligence. The grim verdict came after four weeks at Winchester Crown Court, following the tragic death of a 71-year-old participant at his event in Seend. Sentencing is still pending.
Deadly ‘Ancient Healing’ Workshop Causes Fatal Diabetic Crisis
The case revolves around Danielle Carr-Gomm, a type 1 diabetic who died in October 2016. Danielle attended Xiao’s ‘Paida Lajin’ workshop, which claims to restore health through slapping and stretching techniques inspired by ancient Chinese self-healing. Xiao, with no medical qualifications, persuaded attendees to ditch conventional treatments — including Danielle, who stopped her insulin during a recommended three-day fast. She later died from diabetic ketoacidosis in her room at the workshop venue, Cleeve House.
Police Expose Dangerous Deception
Detective Chief Inspector Phil Walker slammed Xiao for encouraging people to stop vital medication despite knowing the risks. “Xiao had no medical qualifications yet was actively urging workshop attendees to abandon their regular medication, fully aware of the dangers,” Walker said. The investigation revealed Xiao exploited Danielle’s mistrust of insulin and duped her with promises of a miracle cure.
Family Demands Justice as Xiao Faces Sentence
Danielle’s family, devastated by her loss, described her as a vibrant soul with a zest for life and travel. They criticised the lengthy legal battle, worsened by Xiao’s lack of remorse and his not-guilty stance. As he awaits sentencing, the case has shed light on the urgent need for tighter regulation of alternative therapies. Experts warn that ditching proven medical treatments for unqualified “healing” puts vulnerable lives at deadly risk.
