Department of Health revokes license of massage therapist accused of sexual assault

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — The Rhode Island Department of Health revoked the license of a massage therapist accused of sexual assault.

A revocation order against Anthony Conti was signed on Friday, Dec. 1.

The department noted that disciplinary cases that are still under investigation are not included in the database.

“Based on the leadings, the exhibits, and the testimony, it is undisputed that the Respondent initiated sexual contact and engaged in sexual conduct and activity with the Client without her consent,” the documents said. “He digitally penetrated the Client’s vagina without consent for the purpose of his sexual gratification. He failed to drape the Client in a away to ensure her safety and physical privacy.”

The department said Conti, of Cranston, violated Rhode Island General Assembly licensing regulation laws for massage therapists and Codes of Ethics and Standards of Practice in connection to an incident on Sept. 1.

The documents said Conti digitally penetrated a client without her consent during a massage at an office in Warwick. His license was then suspended for 90 days.

Conti previously had his license suspended when he had sex with a client while giving them a massage last July.

Laura Serapiglia testified on behalf of the department at a hearing that Conti failed to appear at on Nov. 28.

A notice was hand delivered by the department to Conti on Nov. 9. Since he had adequate notice, the undersigned held the hearing.

According to the documents, Serapiglia testified that she conducts inspections for the department for many professions, including massage therapists.

She said Conti violated the Codes of Ethics and Standards of Practice by failing to properly drape the client and gain consent before moving her clothing, and by engaging in sexual activity, which is prohibited even if consensual.

The documents said a police report showed the client spoke with police. The client claimed Conti asked her to adjust her underwear, then he pulled it lower, and digitally penetrated her.

Police spoke with the manager, who said she spoke with Conti, who told her “the client was giving him verbal cues that she wanted his attention.”

“The police report indicated that the Respondent was arrested but refused to speak to the police officers,” the documents said.

Conti is expected to be arraigned in Kent County Superior Court next Friday.