WESTLAKE, Ohio -- The owner of a Westlake spa appeared in Rocky River Municipal Court Wednesday.

Richard Annabella, owner of Bella Derm Medi-Spa, was charged by video arraignment with 18 counts of practicing without a license.

He turned himself in to police at about 7 a.m. after Westlake police issued a warrant for his arrest.

"We'll have to work things out this way," Annabella told NewsChannel5 investigator Ron Regan.

Regan spoke with Annabella as he walked into the police station. He said this is all a huge waste of taxpayer money. And he said that he is innocent of all charges.

Police Station | Investigation

"I help people feel better about themselves, the way that I have all my life," Annabella said. "I am a cosmetologist and I have never been anything but a cosmetologist."

Regan first broke the story about the medical spa in February. His investigation raised questions about whether clients were misled about Annabella's credentials. He is a cosmetologist -- not a doctor.

Last month, the violations were officially presented to the State Board of Cosmetology, NewsChannel5 reported.

The alleged violations include providing services outside the scope of practice, and questioning whether nurses or cosmetologists were providing medical services without a doctor's supervision.

The State Board of Cosmetology will not release details of fines or suspensions until the case is resolved.