Hongchi Xiao, a proponent of “slapping therapy,” has been sentenced to 10 years in prison for the negligent manslaughter of 71-year-old Danielle Carr-Gomm. Carr-Gomm, a type 1 diabetic, died after ceasing insulin use during one of Xiao’s workshops in England. This conviction follows a similar case in Australia, where Xiao was found guilty of manslaughter in the death of a 6-year-old boy who also stopped taking insulin under Xiao’s influence.
The Deadly Consequences of “Slapping Therapy”
Carr-Gomm’s death underscores the dangers of unregulated alternative therapies. During Xiao’s workshop in October 2016, she stopped taking her insulin, a decision reportedly supported by Xiao. As her condition deteriorated, with symptoms including vomiting and frothing at the mouth, Xiao’s efforts to seek medical help were deemed insufficient by prosecutors. The judge, Justice Robert Bright, stated during sentencing that Xiao knew Carr-Gomm had stopped taking insulin from the first day of the retreat and had made it clear he supported her decision.
This wasn’t Carr-Gomm’s first negative experience with Xiao’s methods. She had previously become ill after stopping insulin during a workshop in Bulgaria, eventually resuming her medication. Despite this, she continued to view Xiao favorably, even referring to him as a “messenger sent by God” in a video testimonial.
Paida Lajin: A Dangerous Practice
Xiao, a California resident born in China, developed Paida lajin therapy. This practice involves slapping oneself repeatedly in specific postures to supposedly purge the body of “poisonous waste.” Xiao and his followers claim it can treat various conditions, including infections, Alzheimer’s, and autism. However, medical experts widely dismiss these claims as baseless and lacking scientific evidence.
A History of Negligence
The UK conviction follows a previous manslaughter conviction in Australia. In 2015, a 6-year-old boy died after his parents stopped administering his insulin while attending one of Xiao’s workshops in Sydney. In that case, the court found that Xiao had directly instructed the mother not to give her son insulin, even as his health declined. This prior incident highlighted the potential dangers of Xiao’s teachings and contributed to the prosecution’s argument in the UK case.
A Family’s Plea for Caution
Carr-Gomm’s family expressed hope that the case would raise awareness about the risks of unregulated alternative therapies. They emphasized the importance of thorough research before pursuing such treatments.
The Verdict and Sentence
Xiao was extradited from Australia for the trial in the UK. He received a 15-year sentence, with 10 years to be served in prison. This case serves as a stark reminder of the potential harm caused by unsubstantiated medical claims and the importance of relying on evidence-based healthcare.
