LEXINGTON, Ky. — A spa in Lexington is facing a lawsuit alleging it failed to protect a customer from sexual assault by a massage therapist, raising broader concerns about safety practices within the company.
The complaint, filed in Fayette Circuit Court, stems from an incident involving 25-year-old Caleb Howard, of Frenchburg. He was charged with first-degree sexual abuse after police say he engaged in inappropriate conduct while providing a massage at a Massage Envy location on Bryant Road.
According to the lawsuit, the business, its ownership, and franchise operators failed to provide a safe environment for clients. The plaintiff, who has not been publicly identified, is seeking compensatory and punitive damages, along with a jury trial.
Court documents indicate the alleged assault occurred on March 14. The victim had previously visited the spa multiple times but had not been treated by Howard before. After the incident, the therapist reportedly fled the room, and a manager assisted the client.
Authorities later interviewed Howard, who allegedly admitted to the conduct. He was arrested and released on bond, and his case has since been referred to a grand jury.
The lawsuit also claims the spa did not immediately report the incident to law enforcement or the state licensing board, asserting that the victim ultimately contacted police independently.
Beyond the individual case, the legal filing alleges a broader pattern of misconduct within Massage Envy locations nationwide. It claims the company has been aware of multiple allegations of sexual misconduct but has often handled complaints internally rather than reporting them externally.
The plaintiff’s attorney, Christopher Goode, said the lawsuit highlights what he described as a systemic failure to address such allegations and protect customers. He also suggested there may be additional victims who have not yet come forward.
The company has not publicly responded to the claims at the time of reporting.
The case remains ongoing, with no hearing date currently scheduled.