Former Surgeon Sentenced for Fraud After Self-Amputation
Neil Hopper, a former vascular surgeon from Truro, has been sentenced to two years and eight months in prison. The conviction follows a fraud case involving false insurance claims and a disturbing psychological condition that led to self-amputation.
Hopper, who was suspended from the medical register in March 2023, intentionally froze his legs using ice, resulting in surgical amputation. He then filed false claims, stating his injuries resulted from sepsis incurred during a family camping trip. The claims totalled over £466,000, which Hopper spent on luxury items.
Investigations revealed that Hopper had been accessing videos showcasing voluntary amputations and communicating with others involved in similar interests. He expressed his ambition to remove his legs due to a complex psychological issue, body dysphoria, which made him feel as though his limbs were 'unwelcome extras'.
During his sentencing, Hopper expressed remorse over the deceit connected to how his injuries were acquired. However, he did not show remorse for his self-amputation.
Neil Hopper's actions have raised serious ethical questions regarding patient and public safety within the healthcare system. His conviction serves as a reminder of the importance of mental health support for professionals and the consequences of deceitful actions.
