QUEENS, NY – Yong De Lin, 66, was arraigned today on multiple counts, including causing a patient’s lungs to collapse due to unauthorized acupuncture treatments. Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz announced the indictment and urges anyone who has received treatment from Lin to contact her office.
Lin faces charges of assault in the first and second degrees, reckless endangerment in the first degree, and unauthorized practice of a profession. If convicted, Lin could face up to 25 years in prison. He is ordered to return to court on September 20.
According to the charges, 63-year-old Shujuan Jiang initially visited Lin at C&W Medical on May 10, 2022, seeking relief for stomach and back pain. Jiang returned for 16 more sessions between May 16 and October 28. During her last visit, Jiang felt unwell and later collapsed on her way home due to both of her lungs collapsing. Immediate surgery was required, and Jiang stayed in the hospital for six days.
District Attorney Katz emphasized the importance of verifying the licensure of health care providers, stating that unlicensed practice could result in life-threatening situations. Lin had never applied for the required state licensure to practice acupuncture.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Anna Diao of the District Attorney’s Elder Fraud Unit.