Masseur jailed for sexually assaulting clients

A Devon-based masseur has been jailed for four years after being convicted of sexually abusing three of his clients.

Ian Nicholls, 64, formerly of Newton Abbot, appeared at Exeter Crown Court for sentence on Friday 24 October having been convicted at a trial of four sexual assaults.

Nicholls was found not guilty of the sexual abuse of a fourth complainant. He must also sign the Sex Offenders’ Register for life.

During the trial, the court heard how Nicholls was at the time of the offences working as a massage therapist in Newton Abbot.

The first allegation was reported in 2019, with the victim describing how Nicholls touched her sexually during the course of a massage. Nicholls also made inappropriate comments to the victim.

Nicholls was interviewed in relation to the offence, but the allegation was not proceeded with at the time due to evidential difficulties. However, following the disclosure from further victims, the complainant was again contacted and supportive of her case being reopened.

In 2021 a second victim came forward, again describing how Nicholls exposed her and sexually assaulted her during a massage.

Following the second allegation, Nicholls’ employment was terminated leading to him attending the clinic resulting in police being called.

Following a statement from the clinic owner and manager, a further victim was identified.

A statement was taken in which she told of how she was gifted a voucher from a friend and that during a massage, Nicholls sexually assaulted her.

All of the victims spoke of how they froze during the abuse due to Nicholls’ large stature, and did not feel comfortable questioning his actions as they were alone in the building with him. They all described almost identical incidents and feeling vulnerable, exposed and frightened.

Officer in the case, DC Tia Smallridge said: “We welcome the sentence given to Ian Nicholls, who abused his position of trust in the worst possible way.

“Each of the victims all detail being alone with the defendant and feeling too fearful to speak up following their experiences for fear of what could happen.

“It was only when they returned home that they made disclosures to their family, friends and the clinic manager who encouraged the complainants to come forward and report the matter to the police.

“The complainants were all women and not known to one another.

“I would like to thank the victims and witnesses in this case for their continued support in what has been a long and protracted investigation.

“We hope this sentence reassures victims of sexual offending that all allegations will be taken seriously and thoroughly investigated by our officers.”