Gumtree masseur accused of sex assault in Brighton

A masseur is being hunted by police after a woman client claims that he sexually assaulted her at his home in Brighton.

The 28-year-old woman booked the massage in response to an advert on the Gumtree website.

The masseur visited her at home and, Sussex Police said, during the treatment he sexually assaulted the woman. He left after just over an hour.

The force said: “The Gumtree advert offered discounted massages for women only.”

Police are now trying to trace other clients of the Brighton agency which placed the advert.

Detective Constable Leon Ryan said: “I would remind people to be careful when inviting strangers into their homes in circumstances like this.

“If you are seeing someone for the first time have someone else at home, if possible.

“Agree what the treatment will involve beforehand and don’t be afraid to ask them to stop if you feel uncomfortable.”

The incident happened on Thursday 21 November. A 34-year-old man was arrested for sexual assault on Sunday 15 December after inquiries were made to identify the masseur.

He has been released on conditional bail until Friday 24 January.

Gumtree has blocked further adverts from this individual, Sussex Police said.

Detectives want to speak to other people who have used Pink Lady Massage Services, a Brighton business that advertised on Gumtree.

Anyone who has used or communicated with this agency is asked to phone Sussex Police on 101 or email 101@sussex.pnn.police.uk.