Holistic healer accused of sexually assaulting clients surrenders: York cops

Two clients claim they were sexually assaulted during treatments in January

Published Aug 07, 2024 • Last updated Aug 07, 2024 • 1 minute read

Holistic healer Laurent Ali Akbari, 67, of Hamilton, is accused of sexually assaulting clients during treatment sessions in January 2024.

A 67-year-old holistic healer wanted for allegedly sexually assaulting clients during treatments earlier this year has surrendered to cops.

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York Regional Police issued a statement Wednesday saying it was believed the wanted man was no longer in the country, but they revealed soon after that the suspect had turned himself in.

One of the healer’s clients came forward with a sex assault allegation on March 6, claiming the man touched them “for a sexual purpose” during a holistic healing session in January, police said in their statement.

Police said a second client of the man came forward to police on June 5 claiming they were also sexually assaulted in January.

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Investigators subsequently issued a warrant for the man’s arrest.

Laurent Ali Akbari, 67, of Hamilton, was wanted on three counts of sexual assault and police had believed he was in Turkey.

There was no immediate word on whether charges have been laid since the suspect surrendered.

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Investigators have released images of the suspect and are encouraging anyone else who believes they were victimized by the holistic healer to come forward.

Anyone with information can call the Sex Assault and Crimes Against Children Unit at 1-866-876-5423, ext. 7071, or Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).

cdoucette@postmedia.com

@sundoucette

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