The Orange County Criminal Lawyer Blog
A Missouri massage therapist was taken into custody after a client reported alleged sexual abuse during an appointment, according to the authorities.
The incident was reported on April 24 at a massage business in Liberty. A client told the authorities he had gone to the location seeking treatment for back pain. During the session, he said he was first positioned on his stomach while the therapist worked on his back. He later claimed the therapist instructed him to turn over. After that, the therapist allegedly began touching his upper body before moving lower, pulling down his clothing, and making inappropriate contact. The client said he immediately ended the session and left the business.
When the authorities arrived, they spoke with the therapist, who reportedly claimed that only two female clients had been seen that day and that both were currently in sessions. After the authorities explained the complaint, the therapist allegedly stated she did not understand English and said she spoke Mandarin. A translator was then used during further questioning.
The authorities asked to review business records from that day. The therapist reportedly provided an appointment log showing only the two current clients and stated the business opened at noon. However, the authorities said they observed a receipt time-stamped earlier that morning, which appeared to conflict with that claim.
Investigators also attempted to review surveillance footage after noticing cameras inside the business. The therapist allegedly first said she did not know the password, then later claimed the system did not record video.
According to the authorities, the interior of the business and the therapist’s appearance were consistent with the client’s description.
Prosecutors later charged the 56-year-old therapist with a class D felony count of second-degree sodomy. A warrant was issued with a $40,000 bond, and the suspect was reportedly arrested without incident.
If you or someone you love is suspected of a criminal offense, contact Orange County criminal defense lawyer Staycie R. Sena at (949) 477-8088 for a consultation now.