Hillsborough, NJ - A massage therapist from Somerset County has had his professional license temporarily suspended following accusations of sexual assault against a client, according to New Jersey Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin and the Division of Consumer Affairs.
Charges and Indictment
Robert Bittner, who practiced massage therapy in Hillsborough Township, agreed to a temporary suspension of his license by the New Jersey Board of Massage and Bodywork Therapy. The Board’s action will remain in effect until the criminal case concludes and any additional disciplinary measures are determined.
Bittner was originally charged on June 6 with second-degree sexual assault for allegedly touching a woman without her consent during a massage session at a local fitness center. He was later indicted and placed under house arrest with an ankle monitor while awaiting trial.
State Officials Condemn Alleged Misconduct
Attorney General Platkin strongly denounced the alleged behavior. “Licensed professionals who exploit the trust of their clients for their own sexual gratification are a public danger that will not be tolerated,” he said. “When criminal sexual conduct is alleged, it is imperative that alleged perpetrators are removed from practice until those charges are resolved.”
Elizabeth M. Harris, Acting Director of the Division of Consumer Affairs, echoed that sentiment, stating, “There is no place in our massage therapy industry for professionals who cannot be trusted behind closed doors with their clients. Temporarily suspending the license of this individual while this criminal case moves forward is the only way to ensure the safety of the public and protect the integrity of the profession.”
Restrictions Under Temporary Order
Under the Board’s temporary order, Bittner must immediately cease all massage and bodywork therapy practices in New Jersey. Any continued practice would violate the interim consent order and qualify as unlicensed activity. Bittner is also prohibited from entering his former workplace during business hours when clients could be present.
Public Reporting and Complaint Information
Officials encourage any patients who believe they were treated inappropriately by a licensed health care professional to file a complaint online with the State Division of Consumer Affairs or request a complaint form by calling 973-504-6200.
Legal Options for Victims of Sexual Abuse by Massage Therapists
When trust between a client and a licensed massage therapist is broken by sexual misconduct, victims often struggle to know where to turn. New Jersey sexual abuse lawyer Eric Weitz shares the legal steps survivors can take, the rights they hold under state law, and how civil claims can help them seek accountability and financial recovery.
Laurence Banville, Esq.: When something like this happens in a professional setting such as a massage therapy session, what can victims do to protect their rights?
Eric Weitz, Esq.: Victims can pursue civil claims in addition to cooperating with criminal investigations. Civil actions allow them to seek compensation for damages such as emotional distress, therapy costs, and other losses related to the abuse. It’s important that victims contact an attorney experienced in sexual abuse cases to understand their options and ensure their voice is heard.
Banville: Are the employers or facilities where the therapist worked ever held accountable?”
Weitz: Yes, if the employer failed to conduct proper background checks, ignored warning signs, or didn’t provide a safe environment, they can be held liable. Employers have an obligation to protect clients from harm, especially when the misconduct occurs under their roof.
Speak Confidentially With an Experienced Attorney
Survivors of sexual abuse by massage therapists have legal rights and do not have to face the aftermath alone. Our legal team stands ready to listen, guide, and help victims explore their options for justice and compensation. If you or a loved one experienced misconduct during a massage session, contact us today for a free, confidential consultation.
