Fox 35 reported that a massage therapist has been accused of inappropriately touching two women during massages at The Spa Orlando located at 1010 Arthur St, Orlando, FL 32804.
Law officials met with the first woman on October 20, 2022. She claimed that 48-year-old Manrique Yepez, began touching her inappropriately during a massage targeting her neck and shoulders. Deputies say the following day another victim gave a similar report.
Yepez was arrested and is being held without bond. He is facing two charges of sexual battery.
Attorney contributor Michael Haggard helps victims of sexual assault in the state of Florida. During a recent interview, he sought to answer the common question, "Can I sue for being sexually assaulted by a massage therapist?"
"Massage therapists offer patients a relaxing and therapeutic service. People go to spas to get relief from their pains and aches. These patients are often put in vulnerable positions due to the type of service. Sadly, we hear reports of massage therapists taking advantage of their positions and their client's vulnerability to sexually abuse them. Spas and other institutions owe their clients a duty of care that includes the prevention of such behavior. These business owners should thoroughly examine the background of the employee to reduce the risk of hiring known predators."
"Victims who were inappropriately touched during a massage should be aware of their legal options. A sexual abuse lawyer can help victims identify any responsible parties. If they were aware of complaints made about a therapist yet continued to allow them to work, they could be held accountable. It is possible for victims sexually assaulted by a massage therapist to file a lawsuit against negligent massage parlors and spas."