Barling Massage Therapist Faces Rescheduled Jury Trial for Sexual Assault Charges

Raymond Graham's trial delayed until May after multiple allegations of inappropriate conduct during massages at his Fort Smith studio.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The jury trial for Raymond Graham, a 51-year-old massage therapist in Barling, Arkansas, has been rescheduled to the week of May 11 after he was previously charged with multiple counts of second-degree sexual assault involving forcible compulsion. The allegations stem from two reported incidents in 2024 at Graham's Inner Peace Massage & Body Studio in Fort Smith, where clients accused him of inappropriate touching and behavior during massages.

Why it matters

The rescheduled trial highlights the ongoing issue of sexual misconduct allegations against healthcare professionals, particularly in the massage therapy industry, which has faced increased scrutiny in recent years over reports of inappropriate behavior by some practitioners. The case also raises questions about background checks, licensing, and oversight in the massage therapy field to protect client safety.

The details

According to court documents, Graham was initially arrested on two counts of second-degree sexual assault involving forcible compulsion. A third count has since been added. In the first incident, a client said Graham laid on top of them during a deep tissue massage, causing them to pass out, and then touched them sexually. In the second incident, another client reported inappropriate touching by Graham during a massage focused on their neck and shoulders. Both incidents were reported to police in 2024.

  • The jury trial, originally scheduled for March, is now set for the week of May 11, 2026.
  • The plea deadline in the case is April 22, 2026.

The players

Raymond Graham

A 51-year-old massage therapist in Barling, Arkansas, who is facing multiple charges of second-degree sexual assault.

Inner Peace Massage & Body Studio

The Fort Smith, Arkansas massage therapy studio owned and operated by Raymond Graham, where the alleged incidents of sexual assault took place.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The judge will decide on April 22 whether to accept a plea deal or proceed with the rescheduled jury trial starting the week of May 11.

The takeaway

This case highlights the need for stronger regulations, oversight, and accountability measures in the massage therapy industry to protect clients from potential sexual misconduct. It also underscores the importance of thorough background checks and licensing requirements for massage therapists to prevent such incidents from occurring.