A massage therapist at an exclusive Berkshire health spa is confronting a substantial prison term after being found guilty of a horrifying series of assaults on five unsuspecting female clients.
The disturbing attacks occurred at the luxurious Nirvana Spa in Crowthorne, where women seeking relaxation and wellness treatments were instead subjected to brutal violence by 37-year-old Valentin Lazar.
A Betrayal of Trust in a Sanctuary of Wellness
Reading Crown Court heard harrowing accounts of how Lazar, exploiting his position of trust, subjected clients to terrifying ordeals during what should have been peaceful massage sessions. Instead of providing therapeutic treatments, he inflicted significant injuries including severe bruising, muscle damage, and psychological trauma.
One victim described being held down and pummelled with such force that she feared for her life, while others spoke of being unable to escape his overpowering grip during the vicious assaults.
Pattern of Violence Emerges
The court learned that Lazar's attacks followed a similar pattern of excessive and violent force, completely contrary to professional massage therapy standards. Despite complaints from multiple victims, the spa management initially failed to take adequate action, allowing the therapist to continue practicing.
Prosecutor Charles Ward-Jackson revealed how one victim was left with extensive bruising covering her entire back, while another suffered such severe muscle damage that she required ongoing medical treatment.
Spa Management Under Scrutiny
The case has raised serious questions about oversight and client safety at premium wellness establishments. Evidence presented in court suggested that spa management received multiple complaints about Lazar's conduct but permitted him to continue treating clients.
Judge Sarah Campbell has ordered pre-sentence reports, acknowledging the severity of the offences and the profound impact on the victims. Lazar remains in custody awaiting sentencing next month, facing the almost certainty of a lengthy prison term for his catalogue of violent crimes.
