Ashburn, VA - Patrick Erlandsen Charged With Sexually Assaulted Two Victims at The NOW Massage Boutique

Massage Therapist Charged Sexually Assaulting Two Clients

NBC Washington has reported that at least two clients were allegedly sexually assaulted at The NOW Massage Boutique located at 44727 Thorndike St, Ashburn, VA 20147. 

The Loudoun County Sheriff’s Office special victims unit was first notified of an incident on July 2, 2022. Just five days later, the second incident was reported on Thursday, July 7, 2022. That same day they arrested 20-year-old Patrick Erlandsen. Erlandsen was an employee at the massage boutique located in the One Loudoun complex.

When asked why the employee remained employed after the first incident, the owner claimed they had only heard of the allegations on Thursday. At first, the popular massage boutique put Erlandsen on administrative duty, but after his arrest, they terminated his employment. Patrick Erlandsen is facing two counts of aggravated sexual battery and one count of attempted object sexual penetration. 

Do I Need a Lawyer For Sexual Abuse By Massage Therapist?

Attorney contributor Kevin Biniazan is an experienced massage therapist sexual assault lawyer who represents victims in civil lawsuits. Kevin has shared some information regarding the legal rights of these victims, including when they should hire a lawyer. 

"Many sexual assault cases against massage therapists have been reported nationwide. This widespread sexual assault issue within the massage industry shows how therapists use their position of trust and power to abuse vulnerable clients."

"Massage boutiques are required to maintain their clients' safety while on their property. These owners must ensure their massage therapists and staff are qualified and can pass a background check. If a sexual assault occurs, the spa owners could be found liable if they neglected this legal duty of care. If a massage boutique employee had previous reports of misconduct yet was allowed to continue working, the crime could be deemed foreseeable. Victims might have grounds to file a civil lawsuit if the sexual assault occurred due to the massage boutique owner's negligence."

"Victims sexually assaulted by a massage therapist should seek the guidance of an experienced massage therapist sexual assault lawyer. The lawyer can help identify if the third party could be held liable and possibly responsible for compensating for any damages."

Sources: 

NBC Washington