The recent allegations against a Richmond Hill acupuncturist have sent shockwaves through Toronto’s healthcare community. York Regional Police arrested 59-year-old Xu Li, who now faces multiple sexual assault charges.
According to investigators, the first incident occurred in January 2024. A female patient reported being sexually assaulted during an acupuncture treatment at Li’s clinic, Balance Acupuncture.
This alarming case might have remained isolated if not for a second victim coming forward. Following media coverage of the initial arrest, another woman contacted authorities with disturbingly similar allegations from December 2023.
“These types of cases often involve a significant breach of trust,” said Detective Sarah Romero from York Regional Police’s Special Victims Unit. “We’re concerned there may be additional victims who haven’t yet come forward.”
The healthcare community in Toronto’s northern suburbs appears stunned. Dr. Melissa Chen, who runs a neighboring wellness practice, expressed her dismay. “Practitioners like this damage the reputation of an entire healing tradition that’s helped countless people,” she told me when I visited the area yesterday.
Li operated his clinic near Leslie Street and Highway 7, a busy commercial district serving Richmond Hill’s diverse community. The practice offered traditional Chinese medicine treatments alongside acupuncture services.
Toronto’s complementary medicine sector has grown substantially over the past decade. According to the Ontario Association of Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioners, the GTA now hosts over 200 registered practitioners. This growth reflects increasing public interest in alternative healing modalities.
However, this case highlights ongoing concerns about regulation in the field. The College of Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioners and Acupuncturists of Ontario oversees licensing and professional conduct, but critics suggest oversight mechanisms could be strengthened.
“We encourage potential patients to verify credentials and check disciplinary records before seeking treatment,” said Jordan Wong from the Canadian Complementary Medicine Association during our phone conversation this morning. “These simple steps can help ensure safe, professional care.”
For those who’ve experienced similar misconduct, resources exist. The Toronto Rape Crisis Centre provides confidential support services, while York Regional Police have established a dedicated reporting line for this specific case.
Li has been released on bail with strict conditions limiting his professional activities. His next court appearance is scheduled for next month at the Newmarket courthouse.
The Richmond Hill community continues to process these troubling allegations. At a nearby café, I overheard residents discussing their shock that such incidents could happen in their neighborhood.
This case serves as a sobering reminder about vulnerability during medical treatments. While the vast majority of practitioners maintain strict ethical standards, patients should remain vigilant about appropriate boundaries in all healthcare settings.
York Regional Police urge anyone with information to contact their Special Victims Unit at 1-866-876-5423. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through Crime Stoppers.
As this case moves through the justice system, it raises important questions about professional oversight, patient safety, and community trust. The outcome will be closely watched by healthcare providers, regulatory bodies, and the public alike.
For now, the Richmond Hill community waits for answers while authorities continue their investigation into these deeply concerning allegations.
