Devon Masseur jailed for sexually assaulting clients
All of the victims described almost identical incidents
A Devon masseur has been jailed for four years after sexually abusing three female clients.
Ian Nicholls, 64, formerly of Newton Abbot, appeared at Exeter Crown Court for sentencing today (October 24) after being convicted at an earlier trial of four sexual assaults.
Nicholls was found not guilty of the sexual abuse of a fourth complainant.
He has also been placed on the Sex Offenders’ Register for life.
During the trial, the court heard how Nicholls was working as a massage therapist in Newton Abbot at the time the offences took place.
The first allegation was reported in 2019, with the victim describing how Nicholls touched her sexually during the course of a massage.
Nicholls was interviewed in relation to the offence but the case was not proceeded with due to evidential difficulties.
The case was reopened and the complainant was contacted again after a second victim came forward in 2021 with similar allegations of sexual abuse during a massage.
Following the second allegation, Nicholls’ employment was terminated leading to him attending the clinic resulting in police being called.
A third victim was identified after a statement from the clinic owner and manager.
A statement was taken in which the victim said she was gifted a voucher from a friend and that during a massage, Nicholls sexually assaulted her.
All of the victims spoke of how they froze during the abuse due to Nicholls’ large stature, and did not feel comfortable questioning his actions as they were alone in the building with him.
Police said they all described almost identical incidents and feeling vulnerable, exposed and frightened.
Officer in the case, DC Tia Smallridge said: “We welcome the sentence given to Ian Nicholls, who abused his position of trust in the worst possible way.
“Each of the victims all detail being alone with the defendant and feeling too fearful to speak up following their experiences for fear of what could happen.
“It was only when they returned home that they made disclosures to their family, friends and the clinic manager who encouraged the complainants to come forward and report the matter to the police.
“I would like to thank the victims and witnesses in this case for their continued support in what has been a long and protracted investigation.
“We hope this sentence reassures victims of sexual offending that all allegations will be taken seriously and thoroughly investigated by our officers.”