Massage therapist accused of fondling female clients won't be charged - WFTV Orlando

[massage]

Updated: Aug 24, 2016 - 6:21 PM

ORLANDO, Fla. - A massage therapist who admitted to fondling a female customer will not face criminal charges, even though the state barred him from seeing female clients, investigators said.

Felipe Rodriguez-Bermudez is accused of touching women inappropriately during massage sessions.

The salon owners said they had no idea about the restriction placed on Bermudez, and said they will follow the order.

The owners said Bermudez is a contract worker. Bermudez is allowed to treat male clients, until a formal proceeding is completed.

The investigation centers on two women in two separate incidents.

Authorities said the first was reported in May 2015 at Aisha's Beauty Salon when Bermudez was accused of inappropriately touching a woman during a massage.

The other case was reported last month at Essentials Spa and Salon in Metrowest.

During that appointment, a woman accused the therapist of fondling her.

“He's the best therapist in here. Since we opened, he's the one doing amazing here,” said Essentials Spa and Salon owner Pritee Patel.

The Department of Health report said the restriction was filed on Aug. 17.

Patel said she was aware of the most recent complaint, but she knew nothing about the 2015 allegation, and nothing about the restriction.

“Is it concerning to you that I had to be the one to tell you about this restriction?” asked reporter Cuthbert Langley.

“Yes,” said Patel.

The DOH said the restriction was given in person to Bermudez and not the business owner.

That means it is up to the therapist to tell his or her boss.

Patel said she wants the Department of Health to do more.

“Maybe they contact me on the phone or something, so at least I know what's going on,” Patel said.

After the most recent incident, the report shows that the victim called the Orlando Police Department.

During an interview with police, Bermudez admitted to some of the allegations, officers said.

Police said charges were not filed because the incident “does not rise to the level of sexual battery.”

Bermudez can appeal the restriction, but a hearing date has not been set.

© 2016 Cox Media Group.

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