News Summary
The ongoing jury deliberations in the murder trial of Libby Adame focus on her involvement in the fatal silicone injection of Cindyana Santangelo. Adame faces charges of murder and practicing medicine without certification, stemming from a procedure that led to Santangelo’s death due to an embolism. This case highlights ongoing concerns and dangers surrounding unregulated cosmetic practices, especially given Adame’s troubling history with similar charges. As the jury weighs the evidence, the outcome may shape public discourse on safety regulations in cosmetic procedures.
Los Angeles, California – Ongoing jury deliberations are taking place in the murder trial of 55-year-old Libby Adame, who faces charges connected to the death of 59-year-old Cindyana Santangelo. The case has captured significant attention due to the unusual nature of the crime—an unregulated cosmetic injection that resulted in a fatality. Adame is charged with one count each of murder and practicing medicine without certification.
The charges stem from an incident on March 24, when Santangelo passed away following a silicone injection procedure. An investigation revealed that an embolism caused by the injection was determined to be the cause of her death. Adame’s prior history adds a troubling layer to the current trial; she was previously convicted of involuntary manslaughter in 2019 related to another fatality involving buttocks injections that led to the death of Karissa Rajpaul.
In her previous trial, Adame and her daughter, Alicia Galaz, were convicted of involuntary manslaughter but acquitted of murder. While they received sentences for their earlier charges—Adame was given four years and four months, and Galaz three years and eight months—Adame’s current trial addresses more severe charges, highlighting her repeated disregard for the law. The prosecution has warned that Adame was already informed about the risks associated with her actions during her initial trial.
During the current trial proceedings, Deputy District Attorney Lee Cernok emphasized that jurors must hold Adame accountable, insisting she is “not above the law.” Her defense attorney, J. Michael Flanagan, has contended that Adame did not administer the injections herself, claiming she only acted as a consultant for medical professionals based in Tijuana, Mexico. Evidence presented by the defense included information about Santangelo having pre-existing bandages on her buttocks before Adame’s involvement. However, testimonies from Santangelo’s husband suggested that she was breathing normally before the procedure began but exhibited signs of distress during the injection process.
As jury members consider the evidence, they are tasked with determining whether Adame’s actions constitute murder or if the circumstances warrant a different classification based on her claims of consulting rather than direct involvement. Prosecution has painted a picture of negligence on Adame’s part, stressing the need for greater responsibility among individuals practicing unregulated medical procedures.
Adame’s legal troubles have intensified due to her past convictions for practicing medicine without certification, which include three counts against her. Galaz, her daughter, faced two counts as part of their previous case. Law enforcement has been monitoring Adame closely since her arrest on May 12, 2021, for her latest alleged offense.
This trial underscores the dangers of unregulated cosmetic procedures and serves as a critical reminder of the potential consequences of illicit medical practices. In California, the landscape of cosmetic procedures has faced increased scrutiny in the wake of such incidents, raising concerns about safety and legality. The outcome of the jury’s deliberation will not only impact Adame’s future but may also resonate within the broader conversation about health regulations and public safety in the realm of cosmetic treatments.
As the jury continues to deliberate, all eyes remain on the courtroom, where the legal ramifications of Adame’s actions may have far-reaching implications for both her and the community regarding the oversight of cosmetic procedures.
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Additional Resources
- NBC Los Angeles
- Wikipedia: Cosmetic Surgery
- Los Angeles Times
- Google Search: cosmetic procedures safety California
- ABC News
- Google Scholar: unregulated cosmetic procedures
- New York Post
- Encyclopedia Britannica: unregulated medical practices
- CBS News
- Google News: Libby Adame trial
Author: STAFF HERE HOLLYWOOD
The Hollywood Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HEREHollywood.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Hollywood, Los Angeles County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Hollywood Bowl summer concerts, the Hollywood Christmas Parade, film premieres at TCL Chinese Theatre, and festivals at the Magic Castle. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce and Visit Hollywood, plus leading businesses in entertainment, dining, and tourism that define the local economy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERELosAngeles.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HEREAnaheim.com, and HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
