Police: Therapist raped woman at massage clinic

KIRKLAND -- A King County massage therapist has been suspended from his practice and charged for allegedly raping a patient on his massage table, Kirkland police said.

Benjamin A. Fesler, a therapist at a Kirkland Massage Envy, faces the charge of second-degree rape in King County Court. Fesler's trial is slated for May 6.

According to court documents, the victim came in to the parlor on Oct. 23 to receive a relaxation massage from Fesler.  The victim undressed, documents show, and wrapped herself in a sheet. Soon after starting the massage, Fesler allegedly touched the victim in a way that caused her to arch her back, making the sheet fall off. Fesler allegedly didn't replace the sheet, and touched the victim's breasts. He also allegedly grabbed the victim's crotch and said "you're so hot," before kissing her.

Shortly after the massage ended, Fesler started to "freak out," court documents state. He told the victim "this had never happened before," and "I don't want to disrespect you." He then left the room.

The victim contacted police about the alleged rape. She told police she was traumatized during the incident, and felt like she was in a "nightmare" and could not get up an run away.

He is also being investigated by the state Department of Health.