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Content warning: This story contains graphic descriptions that may not be suitable for some readers.
The number of massage therapists accusing Baltimore Ravens kicker Justin Tucker of sexually inappropriate behavior has continued to grow, with 16 women now coming forward with allegations. The accusations, spanning multiple high-end spas, paint a troubling picture of repeated misconduct over several years, an investigative report by the Baltimore Banner revealed.
Initially, six massage therapists alleged that Tucker had exposed himself, brushed his genitals against them, and left what appeared to be ejaculate on massage tables. As the story gained traction, three additional women shared similar experiences. Now, seven more have come forward, bringing the total to 16 women from eight Baltimore-area spas, two of which banned Tucker due to his behavior.
The latest accusers include therapists from luxury spas such as The Spa at Four Seasons Hotel and the now-closed Baltimore Spa & Salon at the Ritz-Carlton Residences. They describe eerily similar encounters, including Tucker maintaining an erection throughout massages, exposing himself, and deliberately making physical contact. One woman reported that Tucker moved the sheet covering him using his erect penis, while another claimed he engaged in prolonged eye contact while exposed.
Tucker has denied all allegations. In a Jan. 30 statement on social media, he declared, “I did not act inappropriately at any point before, during, or after a professional bodywork treatment session,” and accused media outlets of sensationalizing the accusations. His attorneys, rejected the claims, stating, “Mr. Tucker has never behaved inappropriately during any massage therapy session, and certainly never in the manner described.” They further provided a sworn declaration from the former owner of Baltimore Spa & Salon asserting that no complaints about Tucker were ever received. However, therapists from that spa claim they never reported his behavior out of fear of losing their jobs.
The NFL has stated that it is “looking into” the allegations, while the Ravens organization has said they will “continue to monitor the situation.” Meanwhile, the growing number of claims has fueled debate about Tucker’s future in the league.
Tucker, known as one of the most accurate kickers in NFL history, has long cultivated a reputation as a devout Catholic, opera singer, and family man. However, the mounting accusations have led many to question the contrast between his public persona and the alleged misconduct.
Massage therapists who have spoken out against Tucker describe a range of emotions, from anger and shock to validation upon learning that others had experienced similar encounters. One therapist, identified as B., recalled breaking down in tears upon reading the initial reports, as she had struggled for years with the memory of her encounter with Tucker. Another, identified as G., expressed regret for not reporting him sooner, believing that speaking up earlier might have prevented further incidents.
The Challenges Faced by Massage Therapists
The allegations against Tucker highlight a broader issue within the massage therapy profession: the prevalence of inappropriate client behavior and the difficulties therapists face in addressing it. Massage therapists are uniquely vulnerable to misconduct, given the one-on-one nature of their work in private settings. Most clients recognize and respect professional boundaries, but inappropriate behavior remains a persistent issue.
When confronted with inappropriate behavior, massage therapists are advised to:
- Clearly communicate professional boundaries and expectations before and during the session.
- Immediately end a session if a client engages in inappropriate conduct.
- Report the incident to their supervisor or spa management.
- Document the behavior in case legal or disciplinary action is necessary.
Despite these protocols, many massage therapists do not report misconduct due to fear of professional repercussions. As seen in the Tucker case, some therapists were hesitant to speak out because of concerns about job security or skepticism over whether their claims would be taken seriously, especially when the accused is a high-profile individual. The power dynamics in such situations often leave survivors feeling powerless and isolated.
Experts in the field stress the importance of fostering safer work environments by implementing clear policies, offering support for affected employees, and ensuring that accusations are thoroughly investigated. More industry-wide awareness and advocacy can help prevent future incidents and encourage more victims to come forward without fear of retaliation.
As the allegations against Tucker continue to unfold, the allegations serve as a stark reminder of the broader challenges massage therapists face in maintaining safe and professional workspaces.
