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Massage Envy Sexual Assault Lawsuit in Illinois: Protecting The Rights of Assault Survivors

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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.

Massage Envy Sexual Assault Lawsuit in Illinois - Survivors Have Options

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:

  • Unwanted touching of genitals or breasts
  • Forcible digital penetration of the vagina
  • Exposing oneself to clients
  • Attempted rape or sexual assault
  • Sexual battery and felony assault

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.

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Ervin Nevitt, Esq.
Sexual Assault Lawyer

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The Massage Envy Sexual Assault Lawsuit

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:

  • Hiring therapists with criminal backgrounds
  • Failing to report assaults to law enforcement
  • Inadequate investigation of complaints
  • Allowing accused therapists to transfer to other locations

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.

Legal Rights of Sexual Assault Survivors in Illinois

Survivors of sexual assault at Massage Envy locations in Illinois have both civil and criminal legal options available:

Civil options:

  • Filing a personal injury lawsuit against Massage Envy and/or the individual therapist
  • Seeking compensation for medical bills, therapy costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering

Criminal options:

  • Reporting the assault to law enforcement for criminal investigation and potential prosecution

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 Massage Spa Sexual Assault Cases

The legal process for a Massage Envy sexual assault case typically involves:

  1. Initial consultation and case evaluation
  2. Investigation and evidence gathering
  3. Filing the lawsuit
  4. Discovery phase (exchanging information with the defendant)
  5. Negotiations and potential settlement
  6. Trial preparation
  7. Trial (if a settlement is not reached)

Throughout this process, your attorney will advocate for your rights and work to secure the best possible outcome for your case.

Holding Massage Spas Accountable: Beyond Massage Envy

The Massage Envy lawsuits highlight the importance of holding massage spas accountable for protecting their clients. This includes:

  • Implementing thorough background checks for all therapists
  • Providing comprehensive training on professional boundaries
  • Establishing clear protocols for handling complaints
  • Taking immediate action when misconduct is reported

By holding Massage Envy and other spas accountable through legal action, survivors can help prevent future assaults and create safer environments for all clients.

Support Resources for Sexual Assault Survivors

Recovering from sexual assault can be a challenging process. Survivors in Illinois can access various support resources, including:

  • Counseling and therapy services
  • Support groups for sexual assault survivors
  • Advocacy organizations like the Illinois Coalition Against Sexual Assault
  • Legal aid services for low-income survivors
  • Sexual assault counselors

Remember, you don't have to face this journey alone. There are people and organizations ready to support you.

Frequently Asked Questions About Massage Spa Lawsuits

  1. How common are sexual assaults in massage spas?
    While exact numbers are difficult to determine, investigations have revealed hundreds of reported cases at Massage Envy alone, suggesting the problem is more widespread than many realize.
  2. What should I do immediately after experiencing sexual assault at a massage spa?
    Seek medical attention, report the incident to law enforcement, and contact an experienced sexual assault attorney to understand your legal options.
  3. Can I file a lawsuit against Massage Envy if I was assaulted at a franchise location?
    Yes, you may be able to file a lawsuit against both the individual franchise and Massage Envy corporate, depending on the circumstances of your case.
  4. How long do I have to file a sexual assault lawsuit in Illinois?
    Generally, you have 2 years to file a civil lawsuit, but this time limit may be extended in some cases. Consult with an attorney as soon as possible to ensure you don't miss any deadlines.
  5. What types of compensation can I seek in a massage spa sexual assault case?
    You may be able to seek compensation for medical expenses, therapy costs, lost wages, pain and suffering, and punitive damages.
  6. Will my identity be protected if I file a lawsuit?
    Many courts allow sexual assault survivors to file lawsuits under pseudonyms (e.g., Jane Doe) to protect their privacy.
  7. How long does a massage spa sexual assault lawsuit typically take?
    The duration can vary widely depending on the complexity of the case and whether it settles or goes to trial. Your attorney can give you a better estimate based on your specific situation.
  8. What if the massage therapist who assaulted me no longer works at the spa?
    You may still be able to pursue a case against the spa for negligent hiring, supervision, or retention, even if the therapist is no longer employed there.

Taking Action: Steps to File a Massage Envy Sexual Assault Claim

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.

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