Michigan hypnotherapist sentenced for sexually assaulting patients during sessions

Police uncover multiple assaults dating back to 2007

John Gary Tomlinson (WDIV)

FLINT, Mich. – A hypnotherapist in Genesee County will spend at least 15 years in prison for multiple sexual assaults at his therapy office.

In August, a jury convicted 73-year-old John Gary Tomlinson of first-degree criminal sexual conduct, five counts of second-degree criminal sexual conduct and one count of unlawful imprisonment. The convictions stem from multiple assaults that took place at his Grand Blanc Township therapy office between 2013 and 2017.

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Some allegations go back to 2007.

According to authorities, victims testified they were under various states of mental incapacity while undergoing hypnotherapy when he assaulted them.

After a victim reported in April 2017 that Tomlinson sexually assaulted her, police began to investigate and multiple other victims came forward. He was arrested and charged with first-degree criminal sexual conduct, unlawful imprisonment and assault by strangulation.

Tomlinson was sentenced Monday, Sept. 30 to a minimum of 15 years. He will be 88 years old when he is considered eligible for parole.

John Gary Tomlinson (WDIV)

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Dane Kelly is an Oreo enthusiast and producer who has spent the last seven years covering Michigan news and stories.

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