Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office

08/23/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 08/23/2024 16:01

August 23, 2024: DA Gascón Announces Charges Against Man Who Impersonated a Doctor, Performed Surgery Without a License on Woman in LA

LOS ANGELES, CA - Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascón announced today that Cristian Perez Latorre has been charged with assault and battery after impersonating a doctor and performing cosmetic surgery without the proper license on a woman in Los Angeles in July 2021.

"When an individual masquerades as a doctor and performs medical procedures without a license, it not only endangers lives but also erodes the essential trust between patients and legitimate healthcare providers," District Attorney Gascón said. "This act of deception threatens the integrity of our healthcare system and the confidence that the community has in those dedicated to their well-being. We are committed to seeking justice for the victim, holding Mr. Latorre accountable and restoring the trust that has been so grievously violated."

The case was investigated by the California Department of Consumer Affairs, Division of Investigation.

"There is no excuse for the unlicensed practice of medicine, and it will not be tolerated," Department of Consumer Affairs Division of Investigation Chief Kathleen Nicholls said. "Anyone who violates the law and endangers the health of others must face the consequences of dangerous and selfish actions. We are grateful forour law enforcement partners and investigators who worked tirelessly on this case."

Cristian Adrian Perez Latorre (dob 9/30/70) is charged in case 24CJCF04337with one count of assault with a deadly weapon; one count of battery with serious injury; and six counts of practicing medicine without a certification.

It is further alleged that Latorre inflicted great bodily injury.

On July 13, 2021, Latorre allegedly performed an unlicensed cosmetic surgery on a woman. On July 23, 2021, Latorre medically treated the victim for infections that resulted from the surgery. On August 13, 2021, Latorre again treated the victim for further complications related to the surgery.

Latorre was arrested on August 22, 2024, by the Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office's Bureau of Investigation.

If convicted as charged, he faces a maximum sentence of 10 years in state prison.

Anyone who may have additional information regarding Latorre is asked to call LADA's Consumer Protection Division at 213-257-3010.

Photo: Cristian Perez Latorre