Michigan hypnotherapist accused of sexually assaulting patient during session

John Tomlinson charged with first-degree criminal sexual conduct

FLINT, Mich. – A hypnotherapist is accused of sexually assaulting one of his patients during a hypnotherapy session at his office in Grand Blanc Township.

John Gary Tomlinson, 65, of Flint, is charged with one count of first-degree criminal sexual conduct, one count of unlawful imprisonment, and one count of assault by strangulation. 

The Genesee County Prosecutor's Office said Grand Blanc Township police officers were sent to Tomlinson’s hypnotherapy office on Holly Road after a patient Tomlinson was treating "reported that Tomlinson had sexually assaulted her while she was undergoing her fourth hypnotherapy session."

Tomlinson claims he's a doctor on his website, saying he can help people who truly have nowhere else to turn for pain and weight loss. He said he can free people from serious addictions.

The woman went to his Grand Blanc office in pain and needing help. But in the middle of her session, she said Tomlinson sexually assaulted her.

Three other women have complained that they were assaulted by Tomlinson. Two were found to not be criminal in nature, and one case was dismissed.

The details of the latest case are so disturbing that police fear dozens of patients could have fallen victim while being under hypnosis.

Tomlinson is scheduled to be arraigned on the charges in 67th District Court. 

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Local 4 Defender Shawn Ley is an Emmy award-winning journalist who has been with Local 4 News for more than a decade.

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