In a troubling development for the Utah massage therapy community, a massage therapist previously charged with sexually abusing two clients has now been accused of sexually assaulting a third woman. The new charges were filed in a Utah district court, adding to the serious allegations against 32-year-old John Doe, who has been under scrutiny since the initial accusations surfaced last year. The latest victim, who has not been named to protect her identity, reported the incident to law enforcement in September, leading to the new charges being filed. According to court documents, the woman alleges that during a massage session in March, Doe engaged in inappropriate sexual contact without her consent, an assertion that echoes the earlier claims made by the two previous clients. The initial allegations against Doe came to light in May 2022, when two women came forward with similar stories of sexual abuse that occurred during their appointments. Both women reported that Doe had made unwanted sexual advances and had touched them inappropriately during their sessions. These incidents prompted an investigation by local authorities, ultimately leading to Doe's arrest and charges of sexual assault, forcible sexual abuse, and other related offenses. As the case has unfolded, troubling details have emerged regarding Doe's background. He was previously licensed as a massage therapist in Utah and had been practicing for several years. However, the Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing has since suspended his license pending the outcome of the criminal proceedings. This decision reflects the serious nature of the allegations and aims to protect the public from potential harm. Doe's attorney, who has maintained his client's innocence, expressed concern over the ongoing media coverage of the case, arguing that it could jeopardize Doe's right to a fair trial. 'We believe that John is innocent and that these allegations will be proven false in court,' said the attorney. 'He deserves a chance to defend himself without the prejudgment that often comes from sensationalized reports.' Despite his attorney's assertions, the allegations have raised alarms within the local community, prompting discussions about the safety and regulations surrounding massage therapy practices in Utah. Several advocacy groups have come forward, urging for stricter oversight of massage therapists to prevent such incidents from occurring in the future. 'This is a wake-up call for both the industry and clients,' stated a spokesperson for a local women’s advocacy group. 'We need to ensure that our massage therapists are held to the highest standards of professionalism and ethics.' In response to the increasing concerns, the Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing has announced plans to review its regulatory framework surrounding massage therapy. Officials stated that they are committed to improving safety protocols and ensuring that clients feel secure during their treatment sessions. 'We take these allegations very seriously and are working diligently to address any gaps in our oversight,' said a spokesperson for the division. As the legal proceedings against Doe continue, the impact of the allegations extends beyond the courtroom. Many women in the community have expressed feelings of fear and distrust towards massage therapists, leading some to reconsider their self-care routines. 'I used to go for massages regularly, but now I feel anxious about who I can trust,' said one local resident. 'It's disheartening to think that someone in a position of care could violate that trust in such a horrific way.' The case is set to proceed to trial later this year, with both sides preparing to present their arguments. As more details emerge, the community remains on edge, anxious to see how the courts will address the serious allegations against Doe. In the meantime, advocates are calling for increased awareness and education about consent and boundaries in therapeutic settings. The allegations against John Doe serve as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities present in therapeutic environments and the need for vigilance within the industry. As the trial approaches, many hope for justice for the victims while simultaneously calling for systemic changes to protect future clients from potential abuse. The outcome of this case could have far-reaching implications for the regulation of massage therapy and the broader conversation about consent and safety in health care settings.