Flagstaff, AZ - Timothy A. Williams, Massage Therapist and Owner of Well-being and Transformation, Facing Charges of Sexual Assault

Massage Therapist Facing Charges of Sexual Assault

AZCentral has reported that Timothy A. Williams, a massage therapist, and owner of Well-being and Transformation located in Flagstaff, Arizona, is being accused of sexually assaulting patients. 

At least two victims have recently come forward accusing Williams of inappropriately touching them. One patient alleges that he touched her bare breasts "as a part of treatment for cancer patients" multiple times. She did not question the treatment until she was seen by other therapists that did not touch her breasts. When she spoke to a friend that was also under a patient of Williams, she was told he had penetrated their anus at least six times over the years to "align her coccyx" after breaking her tailbone. Another woman stated to the police that she had her anus penetrated during her tailbone adjustment on multiple occasions in 2006. 

Williams has a history of sexual abuse charges. In fact, in 1994, his license was on probation for having a sexual relationship with a patient. He was ordered to read and write a series of 10 articles on ethics. A pilates student was receiving personal massages after the class and accused Williams of sexually assaulting her during one of their private massages. In 2002, he was charged with sexual abuse after inappropriately touching a dance partner during a massage at his home. He voluntarily surrendered his license in 2002 amid these allegations. However, he reapplied in 2011, withholding all mention of previous charges, and was approved. 

Can I Sue For Being Sexually Abused by a Massage Therapist?

Attorney contributor Kevin Biniazan is an experienced sexual abuse victim lawyer who has helped dozens of massage therapy sexual abuse victims file lawsuits. Recently Kevin discussed some information regarding filing a lawsuit for being sexually abused by a massage therapist.

"Patients assume that when they go for a massage that their masseuse will act professionally and respectfully. Unfortunately, massage therapy is an industry that is vulnerable to sexual abuse as there have been hundreds of cases of massage therapists sexually assaulting clients. For this reason, the state's Massage Therapy Board must regulate violations and charges to prevent predators from gaining licenses. It is their responsibility to conduct thorough background checks to prevent those with a history of sexual misconduct from being able to repeat their abuse."

"Victims of these crimes have legal options in both criminal and civil courts. Reporting an instance of sexual assault to law enforcement will lead to a criminal investigation. Additionally, victims may have grounds for a lawsuit against a negligent third party, whether it be a massage parlor owner that failed to vet their massage therapists or other entities that may be liable. Victims should gain the guidance of an experienced sexual abuse victim lawyer to explore their legal options fully."

Sources:

AZCentral