LANCASTER, Ohio (March 3, 2024) – A jury in Fairfield County awarded over $10 million to ten former clients of a Lancaster spa who alleged they were sexually abused by massage therapist Matthew Schaitel between 2019 and 2021.
Details of the Case:
- The victims testified that Schaitel engaged in inappropriate and sexually-driven touch while claiming it was therapeutic, violating industry standards.
- The jury deliberated for two hours after a nine-day trial.
- The verdict included:
- Over $5 million in compensatory damages
- $5 million in punitive damages
- Attorney fees and other costs
Survivors Speak Out:
Lead attorney Lynn Ellenberger from FeganScott, who represented the women, commended their courage in coming forward and holding Schaitel accountable. She emphasized the importance of speaking out against abuse and the support system available to survivors.
“These women trusted Natural Remedies to employ professional, trained massage therapists. Instead, they were exposed to a serial predator who abused them for his sexual gratification,” said Ellenberger. “The jury heard the evidence and demonstrated by their verdict that they, too, found Schaitel’s actions repugnant. This verdict sends a clear message that survivors can – and will – hold predators accountable for their actions, and the industries that harbor them.” Other members of the FeganScott trial team included associates Yujin Choi and Paige Smith and paralegal Mary Dugan.
Settlement with Spa:
The case against Schaitel follows a separate multi-million dollar settlement with the spa, Natural Remedies Massage, where the women alleged negligence in protecting clients from abuse by failing to address complaints about Schaitel.
“My clients have told me time and again how terrifying it can be to stand up and call out an abuser, bringing about a torrent of emotions including fear, shame and anxiety,” Ellenberger said. “In this case, as if almost universally true, when victims know they are not alone, they can draw strength from one another and secure powerful results that empower others to do the same.”
Message Sent:
Ellenberger stated that the verdict sends a clear message: “Survivors can – and will – hold predators accountable for their actions, and the industries that harbor them.”
“We are grateful to our clients who endured a long and painful path to hold Schaitel accountable for his actions,” said lead trial attorney Lynn Ellenberger from FeganScott, the firm that represented the women. “It is their collective courage that helped bring these issues to light, ensuring that Schaitel can never prey upon women in his role as a massage therapist again.”
About FeganScott:
FeganScott is a national law firm specializing in representing victims of sexual abuse and harassment. They emphasize their commitment to helping survivors seek justice and hold perpetrators accountable.
Additional Information:
- The original lawsuit was filed in June 2021 on behalf of three women, with eight more later joining the case.
- Natural Remedies Massage offers various spa services, including massage therapy, aromatherapy, and holistic health coaching.
