NEWS RELEASE
GUELPH POLICE SERVICE
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On Oct. 18, 2017, the Guelph Police Service commenced an investigation into sexual assault allegations against a 58-year-old traditional Chinese medicine practitioner/acupuncturist whose practice, Centre of Integrative Natural Medicine, had been located on Surrey Street for over 20 years. This centre moved locations approximately six years ago and is currently located in Morriston, Ont. On Oct. 31, 2017 Sherman Lai was arrested and charged by the Guelph Police Service for one count of sexual assault against a former patient.
On Nov. 29, Sherman Lai was charged with two further counts of sexual assault involving two additional victims, both being former patients.
On Jan. 12, Sherman Lai was charged with six additional counts of sexual assault involving five additional victims all of whom were former patients.
On Feb. 9, Sherman Lai was charged with four additional counts of sexual assault as well as one count of assault, two counts of assault with a weapon, two counts of possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose, two counts of utter death threats involving three additional victims all of whom were former patients.
On April 11, Sherman Lai was charged with four more counts of sexual assault involving four additional victims all of whom were former patients.
Although Sherman Lai has practiced locally in the area, Guelph Police have learned that patients who now resided or once resided within the Greater Toronto Area and beyond have been referred to him.
Police are informing the public that there is no statute of limitations on crimes of this nature and any persons with information can contact D/Sgt. Clark at 519-824-1212 ext. 7518. Anonymous tips can be left at Crime Stoppers 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or submitted online at www.csgw.tips.
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