Surgeon admits fraud over amputation of own legs

An NHS vascular surgeon who had his own legs removed has admitted two counts of insurance fraud and three of possessing extreme pornography.

Neil Hopper, 49, of Truro, Cornwall, carried out hundreds of amputation operations before having his own legs removed in 2019.

Truro Crown Court heard he lied to insurers by claiming that injuries to his legs were the result of sepsis and not self-inflicted.

It heard that in May 2019 Hopper had below knee amputations after a "mysterious illness". In fact he had used ice and dry ice to freeze his own legs so they had to be removed, the court heard.

It heard Hopper had a "sexual interest in amputation".

Hopper had both legs amputated in May 2019 after complaining that his feet were in pain.

He was treated for suspected sepsis before he was told by surgeons that he should have amputations and he was operated on.

He did not tell the medics the real cause of his injuries, the court heard.

The fraudulent insurance claims from two firms totalled more than £466,000 the court heard.

He was tempted by "greed" the court was told.

He had messaged a friend about the claims saying he should "milk it".

More than £50,000 of insurance money was sent to wife, £22,000 on a camper van, another £255,000 on building works and home improvements and a hot tub.

This breaking news story is being updated and more details will be published shortly. Please refresh the page for the fullest version.

You can receive Breaking News on a smartphone or tablet via the BBC News App. You can also follow @BBCBreaking on X to get the latest alerts.