Woman sexually assaulted by unlicensed massage therapist at N.J. spa, lawsuit says - NJ.com

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A married New Jersey couple has filed a lawsuit against a massage therapy business in Monmouth County, claiming the wife was sexually assaulted by an unlicensed masseuse.

The woman was inappropriately touched by the therapist at Massage Heights Sea Girt on Route 35 in Wall Township on April 14, 2023, according to the lawsuit filed in New Jersey Superior Court.

A woman who identified herself as the manager of Massage Heights Sea Girt said Wednesday the business does not comment on pending litigation.

The suit filed Dec. 24, states the client entered the business seeking a massage and that workers assigned Stefan J. Barnes Jr. as her therapist.

While providing services, Barnes sexually assaulted the woman, according to the lawsuit.

Barnes, of Manchester, was indicted in December 2023 on a second-degree sexual assault charge, along with three counts of fourth-degree criminal sexual contact.

He was convicted last year of two counts of fourth-degree criminal sexual contact and sentenced to nine months in prison.

He was released from South Woods State Prison on Nov. 5, 2024, after serving six months, according to the New Jersey Department of Corrections.

The lawsuit claims that Barnes, now 33, was not properly licensed in New Jersey and that Massage Heights Sea Girt, along with its corporate owners, hired him anyway.

The business “held him out as a safe and responsible masseuse,” the lawsuit states.

The lawsuit accuses the business of gross negligence and reckless conduct, and of showing a “disregard for the health, safety, and well-being of others.”

The woman has endured psychological trauma and humiliation. Her husband has also been traumatized and has required medical treatment, according to the suit.

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Anthony G. Attrino may be reached at tattrino@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @TonyAttrino. Find NJ.com on Facebook.