KEW GARDENS, NY – A man accused of masquerading as a surgeon and causing the death of a patient is set to appear in court, marking the start of a legal battle that has captured public attention. Felipe Hoyos Ferrando, 38, faces charges of second-degree manslaughter after allegedly performing an unauthorized cosmetic surgery that led to the tragic death of a woman.
The victim, 31-year-old Maria Penaloza, sought the removal of butt implants and, on March 28, visited what authorities describe as an improvised clinic located within a residence in Queens. It is here that law enforcement officials allege Hoyos Ferrando, lacking the necessary medical credentials, administered lidocaine through injection. This procedure reportedly triggered a cardiac arrest, ultimately resulting in Penaloza’s death nearly two weeks later.
Hoyos Ferrando reportedly attempted to flee to Colombia but was apprehended at the airport before he could leave the country. The arrest has prompted a broader investigation, with authorities eager to hear from any other individuals who may have undergone procedures at the hands of Hoyos Ferrando.
The arraignment, anticipated to take place at Queens Criminal Court, is expected to shed more light on the case. It remains uncertain how many others may have been affected by the defendant’s alleged actions, but investigators are keen to uncover the full scope of his activities.
This case has sparked a conversation about the dangers of unauthorized medical procedures and the importance of verifying the credentials of medical practitioners. The incident underscores the risks involved in seeking cosmetic enhancements outside of established medical facilities.
Legal experts suggest that the prosecution will likely focus on the reckless nature of the unlicensed surgery and the defendant’s subsequent attempt to evade justice. The defense, on the other hand, may argue mitigating circumstances or question the direct causality between the procedure and the fatal outcome.
As the case unfolds, it is expected to draw significant attention from both legal observers and the public, highlighting the often-hidden world of underground cosmetic surgeries.
The outcome of this trial could set a precedent for how similar cases are handled in the future, potentially influencing legislation aimed at curbing unauthorized medical practices.