New York Woman Charged in Fatal Cosmetic Injection

Alicia Leslie faces charges following the death of Maxine Messam during a silicone procedure.

Updated on Oct. 22, 2026 in Sex Crimes

Bold flat-color editorial illustration of a large needle, evoking the dangerous reality of unlicensed cosmetic medical procedures. — New York authorities charged Alicia Leslie with criminally negligent homicide for a fatal, unlicensed silicone injection procedure performed in Westchester County. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

New York City authorities have charged 47-year-old Alicia Leslie with criminally negligent homicide in the death of 53-year-old Maxine Messam. Prosecutors allege Leslie performed a silicone buttocks augmentation without a medical license.

Why it matters

The case highlights the severe health risks associated with unregulated cosmetic procedures performed by unlicensed individuals. It underscores the ongoing dangers posed by illegal medical practices.

Alicia Leslie has been charged with criminally negligent homicide and the unauthorized practice of medicine. The defendant was released without bail and is scheduled for a court appearance in the Bronx.

The players

Alicia Leslie

She is a 47-year-old resident of Mount Vernon, New York, who is facing charges for practicing medicine without a license.

Maxine Messam

She was a 53-year-old woman who died after receiving a silicone injection for cosmetic purposes.

The details

Alicia Leslie allegedly performed the cosmetic procedure in Westchester County, New York, before the victim was transported to Jacobi Medical Center in the Bronx. Maxine Messam was found unconscious with significant trauma to her buttocks before she was later pronounced dead.

February 15, 2022: Maxine Messam was found unconscious and later died at Jacobi Medical Center.
November 4, 2026: Alicia Leslie is scheduled to appear in the Hall of Justice in the Bronx.

Legal Context

This case follows the established legal pattern of prosecuting unlicensed practitioners whose cosmetic procedures result in patient fatalities under state law. These prosecutions are frequent in jurisdictions with strict oversight of medical and cosmetic practices.

Residents are reminded that medical and cosmetic procedures should only be performed by licensed professionals in verified clinical environments. Local authorities continue to track unlicensed operations to prevent further health risks to the public.

The takeaway

Patients should always verify the medical credentials of any individual offering cosmetic injections to ensure their own safety. Seeking low-cost, unlicensed procedures can lead to catastrophic physical injuries and fatal outcomes.