Traditional folk medicine may be an acceptable form of healing in Mexico, but apparently not in Utah.
Which is why Manuel Salazar, also known as Manuel Ramires, has been charged with three counts of practicing medicine without a license. All three charges are third-degree felonies punishable by zero to five years in prison.According to a complaint, filed in 3rd Circuit Court by detective Lori Larsen with the Utah Department of Commerce, Salazar treated three individuals with medical procedures all requiring licensure in Utah.
In April 1994, one victim responded to a radio advertisement in which Salazar said he was a Mexican bone doctor. Salazar performed physical adjustments to the victim's neck and back, according to the probable cause state-ment.
In August 1994, a woman victim was examined during which time the defendant stated "he was a doctor and that it was all right to be naked in front of a doctor and that she should not be embarrassed." He also made "physical adjustments" to her body, the probable cause statement said.
A third victim visited Salazar in February during which time Salazar told the man he was a chiropractor and was also educated as a doctor. Salazar proceeded to make adjustments to the victim's back and arms, according to the probable cause statement.
All of the incidents are alleged to have occurred at the defendant's offices, called Botanica Mexicana, at 768 W. 400 North and at 425 S. 900 West.