A shocking case of medical malpractice has come to light in Florida, where a fraudster posed as a doctor and performed Botox injections in a backyard “med spa” shed. The alarming incident left one patient with facial paralysis, highlighting the dangers of receiving medical procedures from unlicensed individuals.
The suspect, Rosa Mena, 50, was apprehended after a victim reported the botched procedure to authorities. Police discovered a stash of Botox, syringes, and other medical supplies in the makeshift clinic located behind a residence on Coosa Drive in Port St. Lucie. The unlicensed operation was brought to light when the paralyzed patient sought help after paying over $300 for the faulty injection.
Law enforcement issued a warning to the public, urging individuals to thoroughly research facilities and practitioners before undergoing any procedures. They emphasized the importance of ensuring that injectable treatments like Botox are administered by licensed professionals for the safety of patients.
The victim recounted visiting the illicit backyard shed in May, where she paid for the procedure that resulted in facial paralysis. Following the botched injection, Mena attempted to rectify the situation by injecting vitamins into the victim’s face in a misguided effort to reverse the damage.
In a disturbing turn of events, Mena claimed to have a medical background in the Dominican Republic and presented an altered and expired phlebotomy certificate when questioned about her credentials. However, further investigation revealed that she was practicing without a valid license, putting unsuspecting clients at risk.
Authorities seized a range of medical equipment from the rogue clinic, including medical beds, medications, vials, needles, fat sculpting machines, PRP injections, micro-needling and laser hair removal equipment, and injectables for fillers and Botox. The discovery underscored the extent of the illegal operation and the potential harm it posed to patients seeking cosmetic treatments.
Mena now faces multiple charges, including aggravated battery, practicing medicine without a license, fraud, and use of a two-way communication device to commit a felony. She is currently detained at St. Lucie County Jail on a $95,000 bond, awaiting further legal proceedings.
This disturbing case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of verifying the credentials of medical practitioners and seeking treatment from licensed professionals. The incident highlights the risks associated with unregulated medical procedures and the potential consequences of placing trust in individuals operating outside the bounds of the law.
