Felipe Hoyos-Foronda, 38, was arrested on Friday after police say he performed illegal cosmetic procedures from his apartment in Queens, leaving a woman in critical condition. Authorities apprehended him at John F. Kennedy International Airport as he was preparing to board a flight to Colombia. He now faces second-degree assault and unauthorized practice of a profession charges, according to the criminal complaint provided by the Queens District Attorney’s Office.
Police allege that Hoyos-Foronda, who had no proper medical certification, illegally injected Botox and performed other cosmetic surgeries in his apartment on 35th Street in Astoria. The incident that led to his arrest involved a 31-year-old woman who visited his home on Friday for a procedure to remove butt implants. However, police say Hoyos-Foronda injected the woman with lidocaine, which led to cardiac arrest.
After calling EMS, Hoyos-Foronda allegedly fled the scene, leaving the woman unresponsive. She was taken to Astoria General Hospital, where she is currently intubated, with no brain activity. Medical professionals believe she is suffering from lidocaine toxicity and her chances of survival are slim.
Investigators traced Hoyos-Foronda after his landlord provided his name and a photo, and further investigation led to his vehicle being spotted near JFK Airport. He was arrested shortly afterward.
Hoyos-Foronda has pleaded not guilty to the charges. If convicted of second-degree assault, he could face up to seven years in prison, while the charge of unauthorized practice of a profession carries a maximum sentence of four years. He is expected to appear in court on Thursday.
