The number of sexual assault charges laid against a traditional Chinese medical practitioner in Morriston is up to 17.
On April 11 Guelph police charged Sherman Lai, 58, with four counts of sexual assault involving four additional victims, all of whom were former patients.
The latest charges follow 13 previously laid against Lai, who operated the “Centre of Integrative Natural Medicine,” which moved to Morriston about six years ago after operating on Surrey Street in Guelph for over 20 years.
The previous charges include:
– Oct. 31, one count of sexual assault against a former patient;
– Nov. 29, sexual assault charges against two more former patients;
– Jan. 12, six counts of sexual assault involving five additional former patients; and
– Feb. 9, four counts of sexual assault, assault, two counts of assault with a weapon, two counts of possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose and two counts of uttering death threats (involving three additional former patients).
“Although Sherman Lai has practiced locally in the area, Guelph Police have learned that patients within the Greater Toronto Area and beyond have been referred to him,” Guelph Police officials stated in an April 12 press release.
Police are reminding the public there is no statute of limitations on alleged sexual assault crimes. Anyone with information can contact D/Sgt. Clark at 519-824-1212 extension 7518. To remain anonymous, call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or submit a tip at csgw.tips.
