Massage therapy is meant to be a relaxing and healing experience, but for some clients at Massage Envy locations in Illinois, it has turned into a nightmare of sexual assault and abuse. A growing number of lawsuits allege that Massage Envy failed to protect its customers from predatory massage therapists, turning a blind eye to complaints and allowing abusers to continue working. This article examines the Massage Envy sexual assault lawsuit in Illinois, exploring the legal rights of survivors and how they can seek justice.
Sexual misconduct in massage settings can take many forms, ranging from inappropriate touching to rape. Common types of abuse reported in Massage Envy cases include:
Unfortunately, sexual assaults in massage spas are more common than many realize. A 2017 BuzzFeed investigation found over 180 reported cases of sexual assault at Massage Envy locations nationwide. The impact on survivors can be devastating, often resulting in long-lasting trauma, anxiety, depression, and difficulty trusting others.
Ervin Nevitt, Esq.
Sexual Assault Lawyer
Coplan + Crane
60 W Randolph St #101
Chicago, IL 60601
V9M9+XV Chicago, Illinois
Multiple lawsuits have been filed against Massage Envy franchises in Illinois, including Chicago, Naperville, and Elmhurst locations. These civil lawsuits allege that the company failed to properly screen therapists, ignored complaints of sexual misconduct, and allowed accused therapists to continue working. Some key allegations include:
The lawsuits claim that Massage Envy's corporate policies prioritized profits over client safety, creating an environment where abuse could occur unchecked. In some cases, Massage Envy allegedly offered gift cards for free massages to clients who reported sexual assaults rather than taking appropriate action against the accused therapists.
Survivors of sexual assault at Massage Envy locations in Illinois have both civil and criminal legal options available:
Civil options:
Criminal options:
The statute of limitations for sexual assault cases in Illinois is generally 10 years for criminal charges and 2 years for civil lawsuits. However, these time limits may be extended in some circumstances, especially for minor cases.
The legal process for a Massage Envy sexual assault case typically involves:
Throughout this process, your attorney will advocate for your rights and work to secure the best possible outcome for your case.
The Massage Envy lawsuits highlight the importance of holding massage spas accountable for protecting their clients. This includes:
By holding Massage Envy and other spas accountable through legal action, survivors can help prevent future assaults and create safer environments for all clients.
Recovering from sexual assault can be a challenging process. Survivors in Illinois can access various support resources, including:
Remember, you don't have to face this journey alone. There are people and organizations ready to support you.
The Massage Envy sexual assault lawsuit in Illinois represents a critical step towards justice for survivors and accountability for negligent massage spas. This lawsuit addresses serious sexual assault allegations and claims of sexual misconduct at various Massage Envy locations throughout the state. If you or a loved one has experienced sexual assault, sexual abuse, sex abuse, or inappropriate touching at a Massage Envy location or any other massage spa in Illinois, including Chicago, Peoria, or other cities, know that you have legal options and support available.
These cases often involve incidents where clients were sexually assaulted, sexually abused, or subjected to unwanted sexual relations during what should have been therapeutic massages. Some survivors report being massaged inappropriately or sexually assaulted by massage therapists who took advantage of their vulnerable position. The Illinois State Police and local law enforcement agencies are investigating multiple sex offense reports related to Massage Envy facilities. These investigations cover a range of sexual acts, from inappropriate touching to more severe cases of sexual battery and assault.
Don't face this challenging situation alone. Contact our experienced sexual assault attorneys today for a free, confidential consultation. We have extensive experience handling cases involving accused Massage Envy therapists, former Massage Envy employees, and undisclosed Massage Envy incidents. Our team is familiar with the patterns of abuse at Chicago-area Massage Envy locations and other massage spas across Illinois.
We're here to listen, support you, and fight for the justice and compensation you deserve. Our attorneys understand the sensitive nature of sexual assault claims and will work to protect your privacy throughout the legal process. Take the first step towards healing and holding those responsible accountable – call us now to schedule your consultation and learn how we can help you pursue a sexual assault lawsuit against Massage Envy or other negligent massage facilities.
Read more on Hand & Stone sexual assault cases in Illinois.