A woman in Florida has been arrested for allegedly administering Botox injections without a medical license, resulting in facial paralysis for one of her clients. Rosa Mena, 50, was apprehended on Wednesday after a victim reported the incident to the authorities, prompting an investigation by the Port St. Lucie Police Department.
The patient, who paid over $300 for the injection, experienced serious complications following the procedure conducted in Mena’s makeshift “med spa” located in a backyard shed on Coosa Drive. According to police reports, the victim sought help in May 2023 and was left with facial paralysis after the botched treatment.
During the investigation, law enforcement officials discovered an extensive collection of medical supplies, including Botox, syringes, and various other injectable materials. Police emphasized the importance of verifying the credentials of medical practitioners before undergoing cosmetic procedures. In a Facebook post, they stated, “We want to remind the public to research the facility and individual prior to performing procedures. Your safety is our priority!”
The victim’s ordeal began when she visited Mena’s unlicensed clinic. After the initial injection went awry, she confronted Mena, who refunded her payment but convinced her to return for further treatment. During this second visit, Mena injected vitamins into the victim’s face in an attempt to “reverse” the damage caused by the prior procedure.
The patient’s condition worsened, leading her to demand proof of Mena’s medical qualifications. The alleged fraudster claimed to have been a doctor in the Dominican Republic, but provided only an altered and expired phlebotomy certificate when pressed for her credentials.
Following the investigation by multiple agencies, police seized a variety of medical equipment from Mena’s operation, including medical beds, lipo machines, and devices for micro-needling and laser hair removal. In total, authorities uncovered significant evidence of Mena’s unauthorized medical practice.
Mena now faces serious charges, including three counts of aggravated battery, three counts of practicing medicine without an active license, two counts of fraud, and the use of a two-way communication device to facilitate a felony. She is currently held at the St. Lucie County Jail on a bond set at $95,000.
The case serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers of seeking cosmetic procedures from unqualified individuals. The Port St. Lucie Police Department continues to urge the public to ensure that medical treatments are performed by licensed professionals to maintain safety and avoid similar incidents.