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Unlicensed Surgeon's Procedure Leads to Fatal Overdose
19 Jun
Summary
- A Queens man pleaded guilty to manslaughter for a fatal surgery.
- He performed butt implant removal without a medical license.
- Lidocaine toxicity was the determined cause of the patient's death.
Felipe Hoyos Foronda, 40, has pleaded guilty to manslaughter in connection with the death of Maria Penaloza, 31, following a botched surgical procedure. The incident occurred on March 28, 2025, when Penaloza visited Foronda's Astoria apartment to have butt implants removed.
Foronda, who lacked a United States medical license, administered lidocaine via syringe. Shortly after, Penaloza experienced lightheadedness and cardiac arrest. Foronda reportedly called 911 and fled the premises before paramedics arrived. Penaloza was found unconscious and later declared brain dead, eventually being removed from life support two weeks later.
The medical examiner determined lidocaine toxicity as the cause of death. Investigators discovered medical equipment, including syringes and injectables, in a makeshift clinic within Foronda's apartment. He was apprehended at JFK Airport attempting to flee to Colombia. Foronda initially pleaded not guilty in April 2025 but changed his plea on Thursday. Sentencing is scheduled for July 30, with Foronda facing five to 15 years in prison.
