A 31-year-old Kirkland massage therapist has been charged with second degree rape for allegedly sexually assaulting a 26-year-old woman late last year.

Benjamin Adam Fesler of Lynnwood is accused of improper conduct with a patient on Oct. 23, 2014 during a scheduled full-body massage at the Kirkland Massage Envy.

“Massage Envy Spa and our Kirkland franchisee were horrified to learn of these allegations, and we sympathize with the guest involved,” said Massage Envy spokesperson Karen Sung in a statement to the Reporter. “We have a zero tolerance policy against inappropriate conduct.”

According to the Kirkland Police report, after massaging her for a while he then caused the sheet to fall off her chest, forcing her to grab it to cover herself. After this occurred again, he allegedly start massaging her in a sexual manner and ultimately sexually assaulted her, telling her “you’re so hot.”

The victim told investigators this did not last long and eventually Fesler started “freaking out,” saying “this has never happened before, I don’t want to disrespect you.” He then allegedly left the room.

The prosecutor’s office requested bail be set at $100,000 due to the “extremely serious” allegations. A no contact order between Fesler and the alleged victim has been issued.

“The defendant abused his position of trust as a health care provider and assaulted this victim when she was most vulnerable,” according to the charging papers, Fesler has no known criminal history.

“Each franchisee, including the Kirkland owner, is required to conduct criminal background and reference checks prior to hiring and are instructed that all licensed massage therapists must complete training prior to employment, which specifically covers our zero tolerance policy on inappropriate conduct; all of which was completed correctly in this case,” Sung said. “In addition, the Kirkland owner notified local law enforcement immediately upon learning of the allegations and has cooperated fully during their investigation.”