Hongxhi Xiao, a 61-year-old Californian who promoted an alternative therapy workshop, has been found guilty of manslaughter by gross negligence following the death of a participant at his event in Seend, Wiltshire. Winchester Crown Court delivered the verdict after a four-week trial, with sentencing scheduled for a later date.

The case centres on the tragic death of 71-year-old Danielle-Carr-Gomm, who died in October 2016 after attending Xiao’s workshop on ‘Paida Lajin’—a method claimed by Xiao to involve ancient Chinese self-healing techniques that include slapping and stretching. Despite having no medical qualifications, Xiao convinced his attendees to abandon conventional medical treatments in favour of his methods.

Danielle, a type 1 diabetic, ceased her insulin injections during a three-day fast recommended by Xiao, leading to fatal diabetic ketoacidosis. Her body was discovered in her room at Cleeve House, the venue of the workshop, on October 20, 2016.

Detective Chief Inspector Phil Walker of the Major Crime Investigation Team stated, “Xiao had no medical qualifications yet despite this, was actively encouraging those in attendance at his workshops to refrain from taking their regular medication, knowing full well the consequences.” He added that Xiao’s actions demonstrated a grave breach of trust placed in him by workshop participants.

The investigation into Danielle’s death revealed that Xiao had exploited her distrust of regular insulin treatments, misleading her with promises of an alternative cure. His arrest followed soon after Danielle’s death, leading to an extensive legal process that culminated in his extradition and subsequent trial.

The conviction brings some closure to Danielle’s grieving family, who described her as a vibrant individual with a passion for life and travel. They have expressed profound distress over the prolonged legal proceedings exacerbated by Xiao’s lack of remorse and not-guilty plea.

As Xiao awaits sentencing, the case has highlighted significant concerns regarding the regulation and safety of alternative medical practices, stressing the critical importance of medical qualifications and the dangers of eschewing established treatments for chronic conditions.