A shocking report from BuzzFeed News has revealed that more than 180 women have come forward with allegations of sexual assault against massage therapists at Massage Envy, a popular spa chain with nearly 1,200 locations across the country. Many victims claim that the company has actively attempted to cover up these incidents, allowing accused therapists to continue working and discouraging clients from reporting to the police.
Harrowing Accounts of Assault
One particularly harrowing account comes from a woman named Lisa Turner, who described lying “there, completely immobilized by fear,” as a therapist recommended by Massage Envy groped her and assaulted her. After her experience, she attempted to report the incident to the location but was met with resistance from an employee who wouldn’t connect her to anyone in authority. Left with no choice, she contacted the police, leading to the therapist’s conviction for assaulting multiple women during his short time at the spa.
Massage Envy’s Response
In a statement to USA Today, Massage Envy asserted that they have a zero-tolerance policy for harassment and assault, which should lead to immediate termination of any offending staff. However, the BuzzFeed investigation revealed a different reality. Some therapists remained on staff despite numerous complaints, while others were quietly let go without any notification to law enforcement or regulatory bodies, allowing them to seek new jobs without a tarnished record.
Even the therapist in question, who was sentenced to five years in prison, might have continued working there if not for Lisa’s decision to involve the police. She expressed her frustration, saying, “Massage Envy had ample opportunities to remove him from their team, and they didn’t take action.”
Public Backlash and Future Actions
Since the report’s release, Massage Envy has faced widespread backlash, with many people on social media calling for a boycott of the chain. In response, the company has stated they are reviewing their policies regarding how they handle such serious allegations, emphasizing their commitment to improving their practices.
Inspiring Courage
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Conclusion
In summary, the troubling allegations against Massage Envy highlight the need for better accountability and support for victims of sexual assault. As more women come forward, it’s crucial that their voices are heard and that companies take decisive action to ensure safety and justice.
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