@leatherback - Of course, my advice is based on my experience in my climate. I'm in a climate with fairly severe cold winters. In warmer climates, one can get away with things that one can not do in colder climates.
As a second issue, the OP is relatively new to bonsai. Again, aftercare is important. If you are experienced and skilled at aftercare, you may be able to get away with more than if you are a novice.
So I opt to offer advice I have found to be useful in my climate. We know from the look of the foliage that the OP's tree is already at least stresses if not already dead. I think overworking the tree, especially in the "wrong season" is the cause of the problem. My suggestion would avoid a repeat of the scenario.