Title: Masseuse Files Lawsuit Against Massage Envy Alleging Sexual Assault
Introduction:
A masseuse in Webster, Texas, has filed a civil lawsuit against a fellow masseuse, alleging that she was sexually assaulted during a massage. This incident has shed light on the issue of sexual assault within the massage therapy industry and has raised concerns about the response of Massage Envy, the employer in question.
The Alleged Assault and Betrayal:
The victim, who wishes to remain anonymous, worked at Massage Envy in Webster and had a friendly relationship with the male masseuse accused of the assault. She expressed her sense of betrayal, stating, “When he did this, I felt betrayed as a friend, that I didn’t know this person.” The incident involved inappropriate touching that she believes was premeditated to test her boundaries.
Response and Investigation:
The victim reported the incident to management the day after the massage, leading to a prompt investigation. The male masseuse was subsequently terminated. The victim expressed satisfaction with the speed of the investigation. However, it was later discovered that the accused had previously worked at another Massage Envy location, where he was let go due to “inappropriate conduct.” Complaints from other employees at the Webster location also surfaced, citing unwanted hugs and cheek kisses.
Inadequate Reporting Practices:
Surprisingly, Texas’ Department of Licensing and Regulation does not require massage establishments to report sexual assaults to authorities. Similarly, Massage Envy does not mandate franchisees to report assaults externally. Instead, claims are handled internally. The victim called for a change, urging for external reporting to protect clients who trust Massage Envy. Her attorney, Anna Greenberg, revealed that she has filed multiple cases against Massage Envy for sexual assault, criticizing the company’s “hollow” zero-tolerance policy.
Supervision and Ignored Complaints:
Greenberg pointed out that the issue lies in the supervision and response to complaints. Many alleged perpetrators do not have a criminal record, indicating that hiring practices may not be the root cause. The attorney stressed the importance of paying attention to clients’ experiences and taking their complaints seriously instead of dismissing them. This failure to address multiple client complaints can exacerbate the problem of sexual assault within the industry.
The Impact on Victims and the Industry:
The victim in this case has chosen to pursue another career after returning to college due to the traumatic experience. She expressed her shock and sadness at the prevalence of such incidents, noting the damage it has done to the massage therapy industry’s reputation. Sexual assault cases like this tarnish an otherwise noble profession, making it vital for the industry to take action and ensure client safety.
Legal Action and Criminal Charges:
Although the victim initially chose not to pursue criminal charges, she later decided to do so after learning about other alleged inappropriate behavior involving the same masseuse. At present, no charges have been filed. Both the male masseuse and Massage Envy have been contacted for comment but have not responded.
Conclusion:
The civil lawsuit filed by the masseuse against her colleague at Massage Envy has brought attention to the issue of sexual assault within the massage therapy industry. It highlights the need for improved reporting practices and better supervision to prevent such incidents from occurring. The victim’s decision to pursue legal action serves as a step towards justice and accountability. It is crucial for the industry to address these concerns and rebuild trust with clients by prioritizing their safety and well-being.
