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Seminole Woman Charged With Illegal Medical Practice

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TBO.com

Published: August 8, 2008

Pinellas County detectives arrested a Seminole woman they say provided unlicensed health care services at her home.

Karen Marlise Cowles, 51, of 7533 Drew Oaks Drive N., was arrested about 11:15 a.m. today at home, a Pinellas County Sheriff's Office news release states.

The investigation began after complaints were made against Cowles to the state Department of Health.

"Detectives say they quickly found numerous websites upon which the suspect advertised her business under variations of her name to include 'Aesthetics by Karen Marlise,' " the release states. "Some of the websites listed credentials that included board certifications that she does not possess, or which could not be verified by investigators. Some … offer maps to the suspect's home, price lists for services offered, and 'client reviews' that date back to 2006."

Detectives conducted an undercover operation today.

Cowles offered the removal of several "benign epidermal hyperplasia," which she referred to as "skin tags," the release states. "The suspect also offered to perform a laser hair removal procedure."

Those procedures and other services Cowles offers require a medical license or direct supervision from a doctor, detectives say.

Cowles was charged with one count of the unlicensed practice of a health care profession.

Her bail was set at $5,000. She has been released from jail.

Anyone treated by Cowles should call Detective Phillip Mansfield of the sheriff's office at (727) 582-6200.

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