Kansas City-area massage therapist arrested for suspicion of rape, sexual battery

The suspect worked part-time at a yoga studio and a chiropractor's office in the region.

Apr. 9, 2026 at 2:06am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An extreme close-up photograph of a massage table with crumpled sheets, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash against a pitch-black background, conceptually illustrating the serious nature of the allegations against the massage therapist.A harsh, close-up image of a massage table hints at the disturbing allegations against a local therapist.Kansas City Today

A 44-year-old Kansas man who works as a part-time massage therapist in the Kansas City area was arrested on Wednesday on suspicion of rape and sexual battery. The arrest was the result of an investigation into an alleged incident that happened last week during a massage therapy appointment at Om Grown Yoga in Baldwin City, Kansas.

Why it matters

Sexual assault allegations against massage therapists can undermine public trust in the industry and raise concerns about proper screening and oversight of practitioners. This case highlights the importance of businesses thoroughly vetting employees and having clear policies to protect clients.

The details

Police said the suspect was booked into the Douglas County Jail on suspicion of committing two counts of rape and one count of aggravated sexual battery. The owners of Om Grown Yoga assisted in the investigation. The police department stated that the 'main focus of both the business and the police department is the well-being of the victim and the identification of any potential additional victims'.

  • The alleged incident happened last week during a massage therapy appointment.
  • The suspect was arrested on Wednesday, April 9, 2026.

The players

Baldwin City Police Department

The law enforcement agency that investigated the alleged incident and made the arrest.

Om Grown Yoga

The yoga studio where the suspect worked part-time as a massage therapist and where the alleged incident occurred.

Suspect

A 44-year-old Kansas man who worked as a part-time massage therapist at Om Grown Yoga and a chiropractor's office in Grandview, Missouri.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“The main focus of both the business and the police department is the well-being of the victim and the identification of any potential additional victims.”

— Baldwin City Police Department

What’s next

The suspect will appear in court in the coming days, where formal charges are expected to be filed in Douglas County.

The takeaway

This case underscores the need for massage therapy businesses to have robust screening and oversight procedures to protect their clients from potential predatory behavior by employees. It also highlights the importance of victims coming forward to aid investigations and prevent further harm.