HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY, FL. – Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office detectives are looking for more potential victims of a suspect claiming to be a masseuse who sexually battered at least one client.
On March 29, 2022, a woman suffering from back pain contacted Jose Garcia, 68, about receiving a massage. After agreeing to a price for his services as a masseuse, the victim drove to his home in Ruskin, where he operated.
He proceeded to sexually batter the victim during the massage. Garcia, who only speaks Spanish, admitted the crime to HCSO detectives. He is facing four counts of sexual battery. More charges could be forthcoming.
Detectives did not find evidence that Garcia is a licensed masseuse. Garcia claimed that he received his training in Mexico.
It’s believed that he has provided massage services for at least 12 years and has run his business through word of mouth out of his home. Most, if not all, of his clients speak only Spanish.
“This is a man, who took advantage of people who came to him seeking help for their ailments,” said Sheriff Chad Chronister. “Our fear now, is that there are more victims out there who may not speak English or know they can come forward to report these crimes. Thanks to our diverse group of talented, caring, and bilingual deputies, we are here to help them seek the justice they deserve.”
Detectives are asking anyone who feels they have been victimized by Garcia to please contact the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office at 813-247-8200.
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