Austin Woman Sues Massage Envy Franchise Over Assault Claims

News Summary

An Austin woman has filed a lawsuit against a local Massage Envy franchise, claiming she was sexually assaulted by an employee during a massage session. The lawsuit not only highlights the individual acts of the accused but also questions the franchise’s hiring practices and safety protocols in wellness establishments. This troubling case has raised awareness about client safety within massage therapy services, prompting calls for improved oversight and regulations in the industry.

Austin Woman Files Lawsuit Against Massage Envy Franchise Over Alleged Sexual Assault

A troubling situation has emerged in Austin, Texas, where a woman is taking a stand against a local Massage Envy franchise. The lawsuit claims that her visit for some much-needed relief ended in a horrifying experience of sexual assault by a former employee. This serious allegation has put a spotlight on the safety protocols and hiring practices at wellness establishments, especially those that provide intimate services.

The Incident

According to reports, the incident took place back in July 2024 at the Massage Envy located on Escarpment Boulevard near Circle C Ranch. The woman involved, referred to as S.H. to maintain confidentiality, had been a regular patron at the spa. She frequented the establishment to alleviate ongoing back pain. Sadly, what was supposed to be a therapeutic session turned into a traumatic ordeal.

Alarming Accusations

In her civil lawsuit, S.H. asserts that the massage therapist, identified as Juan Alberto Bastida, committed acts that crossed serious boundaries during her treatment. She detailed a shocking account in which Bastida allegedly groped her breast and further violated her during the session, leaving her feeling completely exposed and protective in what should have been a safe environment.

The allegations do not only raise concerns about the behavior of individual employees. S.H. has also expressed her belief that the franchise itself failed in its responsibility to adequately vet and train Bastida before allowing him to interact with clients. This failure has raised eyebrows about the hiring policies and protocols within the establishment.

Aftermath of the Assault

After the incident, S.H. managed to escape the situation and promptly reported the matter to the Austin Police Department (APD). Unfortunately, the emotional fallout from the event has persisted. S.H. now faces night terrors and a lingering state of fear, a reminder of her vulnerability during what should have been a relaxing experience.

Legal and Professional Repercussions

Authorities have taken serious measures, issuing a felony arrest warrant for Bastida following the allegations. This is compounded by the fact that Bastida had a prior history of violence, having faced an assault charge in a past domestic violence case in 2015, before his employment with Massage Envy. Despite this troubling background, he continues to hold an active license as a massage therapist.

Call for Change

S.H.’s attorney, Anna Greenberg, is highlighting the urgent need for stricter hiring policies in the industry to protect clients from potential threats. This case is not an isolated incident; Greenberg has reportedly dealt with five similar cases against Massage Envy within the past year, all centered around sexual assault claims. Her experience brings to light a concerning trend that raises questions about the safety of patrons seeking wellness services.

Pressure on Massage Envy Franchise

Attempts to contact both Massage Envy and its parent company, Helix2 Spas, for their side of the story have gone unanswered, leaving many in the community wondering how such an event could occur in a facility promising relaxation and healing. Community members are also raising their voices, urging for changes to ensure the safety and comfort of all patrons in spas and massage centers.

Moving Forward

Ultimately, S.H. hopes that her case will shed light on these pressing issues and advocate for women’s safety in situations where they are most vulnerable. It’s a call for awareness and reform that resonates not just within the local community, but potentially across the nation.

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Additional Resources

• KVUE: Austin Massage Envy Lawsuit
• Wikipedia: Massage
• CBS Austin: Austin Massage Envy Lawsuit
• Google Search: Massage Envy Lawsuit Austin
• MSN: Massage Envy Lawsuit
• Google Scholar: Massage Therapy Safety Protocols
• Fox 26 Houston: Conroe Massage Therapist Case
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Sexual Assault Cases
• ABC 13: Webster Texas Massage Envy Lawsuit
• Google News: Massage Envy Lawsuit