Police in Switzerland are investigating a licensed acupuncturist after officials say at least fifteen of his patients claim they tested positive for HIV after receiving treatment.
Swiss officials have reportedly been looking into the allegations for five years after a patient first filed a criminal complaint against the acupuncturist, whose identity is being withheld.
Since the first reported claim of infection, 19 of the clients have been infected.
Presiding magistrate Hermann Fleischhackl tells the Associated Press,
“Fifteen believe their infection may have something to do with the accused. Four people have no explanation for their infection or at least aren’t linking it to the accused.”
Authorities believe the infections took place between 2001 and 2005 and will decide by next year whether the man should be formally charged with intentionally spreading human disease and causing serious bodily harm.
The offenses can carry a penalty of up to five and ten years.
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