A man accused of practicing dentistry without a license may have to go through a different kind of cavity search if convicted.
Investigators in Moorpark, Calif., arrested William Escobar, 40, after a month-long investigation that revealed that he gave people cleanings and injected them with anesthetics in the bathroom of his apartment. The officers finally got a bite on him last month when one dissatisfied customer reported him after suffering swelling in the gums, KABC-TV reported. The patient didn’t have enough money to pay for a tooth extraction so it was not performed, according to Moorpark Police Dept. Sgt. Victor Fazio. Even so, Escobar allegedly threatened the patient and said he still owed money, KNBC-TV reported. When detectives showed up at Escobar’s apartment with a search warrant, they discovered an elaborate and illegal dental office, including the chair, dental tools, anesthetic drugs, as well as false teeth and other orthodonture items, according to Ventura.Edhat.com. Escobar was arrested for several charges including felony practice of dentistry without a license, misdemeanor furnishing of dangerous drugs, and possession of needles, the Los Angeles Times. Police are still investigating and believe the suspect was specializing in illegal orthodontics and are hoping to speak with underage patients, according to Moorpark.Patch.com. Escobar had numerous customers, including teenagers who were receiving orthodontic care at the apartment.
