The New Jersey Journal has reported that a woman, who consented to a breast and buttocks massage, only did so as she believed that the masseuse was a homosexual. When she learned that he had a girlfriend, as the girlfriend was also employed at the same New Jersey health club, she filed a police complaint alleging him of sexual criminal contact.
The suspect, from Kensington Avenue in Jersey City, appeared shocked at the charges. He was videotaped at Hudson County jail for Central Judicial Processing court in Jersey City on March 23.
The Jersey City woman, 20, said that the masseur, 30, gave her a massage at Club H Fitness on Christopher Columbus Drive at 3:15 p.m. on Tuesday March 22. He asked her if she would like him to massage her “glutes and breasts”, alleging that it was a regular practice.
Reports said that the woman removed all of her clothing, and then the massage proceeded.
She told the police that though uncomfortable with the massage she was “under the impression that it was a regular practice.” She was also under the mistaken impression that her masseur was “of a homosexual orientation.”
When the victim went home, and described the encounter to her father, he called the police. She also reported the incident to the health club’s manager, who, like her father, allegedly told her that the massage was improper.
She felt compelled to then file criminal charges.
The victim has recounted that she has experienced many massages, including some from the same masseur, but none like her last.
A warrant was signed at 8:44 p.m. on March 22 for the man’s arrest.
Reports show that the club manager told police that the suspect had the woman’s consent for massage – specifically for the breast and buttock region – and that it was a normal massage practice.
Assistant Prosecutor Howard Bell, upon the massage therapist’s court appearance, said to the judge, “Due to some statements made by the victim, there are some potential problems with the case.”
In court the masseuse asked his public defender, “What should I do now, I am completely surprised, should I say something?” He was advised to remain silent and was later released on his own recognizance.
CJP Judge Richard Nieto told the suspect that his next court date would be sent to him via mail and also ordered him to have no contact the woman.
The club manager refused to give any further comments when telephoned March 23.
A massage therapist with Massage Envy on Maxwell Lane, Joel Lewis, told reporters on March 23 that it is not uncommon for therapists to massage both glutes and buttocks with client consent.
But, Lewis added, they can only do so with a special certification after course work is completed. He said, “They (massage therapists) are not allowed to touch that (breasts) unless they are certified, whether the massage therapist is gay or straight doesn't matter.”
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