Massage Envy therapist accused of sexual touching loses his ... - NJ.com

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A Massage Envy therapist accused of sexually touching two of his clients has permanently lost his license, according to officials.

The Attorney General's office filed a complaint with the state's Board of Massage and Bodywork Therapy against Steven A. Segovia in early July, after former clients who saw Segovia at Massage Envy locations came forward and accused him of touching them sexually.

Segovia has agreed to the permanent revocation of his license in order to resolve the allegations against him, according to the Attorney General's Office. He admitted to engaging in consensual oral sex with one of the clients, but has denied engaging in inappropriate sexual contact with the other levying allegations against him, authorities said.

The alleged conduct took place in the fall of 2013, at Massage Envy locations in Manalapan and Freehold.

Regulations strictly prohibit those with licenses from engaging in any sexual contact with clients, even consensual acts. But abuse by such licensees isn't unusual, as at least 180 women had accused therapists employed at Massage Envys across the country of sexual assault as of last fall.

When the allegations against Segovia arose last month, Massage Envy said he was no longer employed by the mega chain.

Segovia will also reimburse the state $5,000 for costs accrued during investigation and prosecution of the case.

Amanda Hoover can be reached at ahoover@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter @amandahoovernj. Find NJ.com on Facebook.

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