Unlicensed Dentistry Operation Busted in Suffolk County Home, Woman Arrested
A 55-year-old woman, Yolany Mejia Carranza, has been arrested in Suffolk County, New York, for allegedly operating an illegal dentistry practice out of her home. Carranza, who lacks any professional dentistry training or licensing, faces three counts of unauthorized practice of a profession. The Suffolk County Police Department initiated the investigation after receiving several tips regarding injuries sustained by Carranza’s patients.
Suffolk County Police Commissioner Kevin Catalina addressed the media at a press conference on Friday, outlining the details of the case. According to Catalina, detectives from the Third Precinct began investigating Carranza after receiving reports that her dental procedures had caused harm to numerous individuals. In one particularly severe case, a patient suffered significant nerve damage, leading to partial facial paralysis.
Catalina emphasized the importance of encouraging other potential victims to come forward, stating, "We think that there’s probably many more potential complainants out there, and we would strongly encourage them to come forward." The police believe that Carranza primarily targeted members of the Hispanic community, specifically undocumented immigrants who lack access to traditional healthcare and health insurance. This demographic is often vulnerable due to language barriers, fear of deportation, and limited financial resources. Carranza allegedly exploited this vulnerability by offering affordable, albeit substandard, dental services.
ABC7 news reported that Carranza administered only local anesthesia during even the most complex and invasive procedures. Furthermore, authorities discovered antibiotics acquired from overseas within Carranza’s home dentistry space. The origin and quality of these antibiotics are currently under investigation, raising concerns about patient safety and potential health risks associated with substandard or counterfeit medications.
Investigators believe that Carranza had been engaged in illegal home dentistry for an extended period, with evidence suggesting she operated a similar practice at a different location for approximately eight years prior to the current operation. This indicates a pattern of behavior and suggests that numerous individuals may have been affected by her unlicensed and potentially dangerous dental procedures.
"Prosecutors are alleging that… she’s been operating a dental practice for, I guess, the last 10 or 15 years without having the licensing," Carranza’s attorney, Aaron Wallenstein, told Fox News Digital. Wallenstein attempted to downplay the severity of the allegations, arguing that the number of complaints received over the alleged timeframe was relatively low. "You know if these [allegations] were true — that she was actually performing dental work — and she was for the last 10 or 15 years, I think, you know, three complaints in 10 or 15 years for any dentist is not a bad percentage for what they’re alleging that she did."
Carranza was arraigned on March 14 and subsequently released. She is scheduled to appear back in court on April 1. The case remains under investigation, and authorities are actively seeking additional information from potential victims and witnesses.
The arrest of Yolany Mejia Carranza highlights the dangers associated with seeking medical or dental care from unlicensed and unqualified individuals. Such practices often lack proper sanitation, sterilization techniques, and adherence to established medical protocols, placing patients at significant risk of infection, injury, and long-term health complications.
The targeting of vulnerable populations, such as undocumented immigrants, is particularly concerning, as these individuals may be less likely to report abuse or seek legitimate medical care due to fear of deportation or other legal repercussions. Law enforcement agencies and community organizations must work together to raise awareness about the risks of unlicensed healthcare and provide resources for individuals seeking safe and affordable medical and dental services.
This case also underscores the importance of verifying the credentials and licensing of healthcare providers before undergoing any medical or dental procedure. Patients should always ask about a provider’s qualifications, experience, and licensing status. Licensing boards and professional organizations can provide information about the status of a healthcare provider’s license and any disciplinary actions that may have been taken against them.
The Suffolk County Police Department urges anyone who believes they may have been a victim of Yolany Mejia Carranza’s illegal dentistry practice to contact the Third Precinct detectives immediately. By coming forward, victims can help ensure that Carranza is held accountable for her actions and that others are protected from similar harm.
The outcome of this case will have significant implications for both Carranza and the individuals she allegedly harmed. If convicted, Carranza could face significant penalties, including fines, imprisonment, and a criminal record. The victims of her alleged illegal dentistry practice may also be entitled to compensation for their injuries and damages.
As the legal proceedings unfold, it is crucial to remember the importance of patient safety and the need for rigorous oversight of healthcare professionals. The case of Yolany Mejia Carranza serves as a stark reminder of the potential consequences of unlicensed healthcare and the critical role that law enforcement agencies and regulatory bodies play in protecting the public from harm.
