Arrest of DFW Airport Massage Therapist, Zantana Zuniga, on Sexual Abuse Charges Raises Alarms Over Client Safety

Dallas, TX – A 33-year-old massage therapist, Zantana Zuniga, has been arrested following accusations of sexually assaulting a woman during a massage at SpaHere in Dallas-Fort Worth Airport’s Terminal C. The incident allegedly occurred on August 11, 2024, when Florida resident Sadie Kolves visited the spa during a layover.

Victim’s Account and Evidence of Assault by Massage Therapist

According to an arrest warrant affidavit, Zuniga reportedly groped Kolves with such force that she had difficulty walking afterward. The document includes photographic evidence of bruising on Kolves’ upper thigh. Kolves shared her experience in a series of TikTok videos, detailing the alleged assault.

Legal Proceedings and Investigation Following Allegations of Sexual Assault

Zuniga now faces charges of indecent assault. The arrest has brought to light multiple investigations into his conduct. The Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation has confirmed five investigations related to Zuniga, with four currently pending. These investigations concern allegations of assault or inappropriate touching during massages.

License Status and Spa Response to Arrest of Masseuse

Despite the arrest and ongoing investigations, Zuniga’s massage therapy license remains active, with no disciplinary action taken by the state. This situation has prompted concern from Kolves, who emphasizes the importance of suspending Zuniga’s license to prevent potential future incidents.

In response to a review posted by Kolves’ husband, a spa official claimed that all therapists had clean backgrounds and suggested that Kolves had informed an officer about her tendency to bruise easily.

Current Employment Status

An assistant manager at the DFW Airport SpaHere location has confirmed that Zuniga is no longer employed by the business. Attorneys representing Zuniga have declined to comment on the situation.

Legal Options for Victims Sexually Assaulted During a Massage

The recent arrest of a massage therapist at Dallas-Fort Worth Airport for alleged sexual assault has brought attention to the serious issue of client safety in spa settings. As survivors grapple with the aftermath of such traumatic experiences, questions arise about their legal rights and the accountability of those responsible. To address these concerns, we spoke with Anjali Nigam, a seasoned Texas attorney specializing in sexual abuse cases. In this interview, Nigam offers valuable information on the legal options available to survivors and explains how negligent parties can be held responsible for their actions or inactions. Her insights provide a roadmap for those affected by similar incidents and underscore the importance of legal advocacy in these sensitive cases.

Laurence Banville, Esq.: Ms. Nigam, what legal options are available for patients who experience sexual abuse during a massage?

Anjali Nigam, Esq.: Survivors have several avenues for recourse. They can pursue criminal charges against the perpetrator and file civil lawsuits against both the individual and potentially the spa or facility where the incident occurred.

Banville: How can negligent parties be held accountable in these situations?

Nigam: Businesses have a duty of care to their clients. If a spa failed to conduct proper background checks, ignored previous complaints, or didn’t have adequate safety measures in place, they could be held liable for negligence. This can result in financial compensation for the survivor and push for systemic changes to prevent future incidents.

Banville: What advice would you give to someone who has experienced such abuse?

Nigam: I urge survivors to report the incident to law enforcement and seek medical attention immediately. Documenting evidence is crucial. They should also consider contacting an experienced attorney who can guide them through the legal process and protect their rights.

Banville: Thank you for your insights, Ms. Nigam.

Support for Survivors: Reach Out for Help

If you or a loved one has experienced sexual abuse during a massage or in any professional setting, know that you are not alone. It is vital to seek support and understand your legal rights. Our team is here to help you navigate this challenging journey. We offer free consultations to discuss your situation and explore the options available to you. Don’t hesitate to contact us—your safety and well-being are our top priorities.

Source:

https://www.star-telegram.com/news/local/crime/article293276234.html