Enfield man who posed as masseur and sexually assaulted women in their homes jailed

An man from Enfield who posed as a professional masseur before sexually assaulting women in their homes has been jailed. Joseph Mooney claimed on his Facebook page that he was qualified to give massages, but had fabricated a certificate to back up his predatory behaviour.

On December 14, 2020, Mooney reached out to a victim who had liked his social media page and offered her a discounted treatment. He arranged to visit her home where she asked him to focus on her shoulders and back.

However, Mooney's massage became increasingly inappropriate, accompanied by crude remarks, leading the victim to ask him to stop. After he left, the incident was reported to the police and Mooney was subsequently arrested.

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Investigators delved into his sham business and identified more victims. It emerged that Mooney had used his Facebook platform to target women, offering discounts under the pretence of being a newly qualified masseur looking to grow his business.

In each instance, Mooney would go to an address chosen by the victim and, after starting the massage, would sexually assault them. Some victims were shown his fake qualifications and several women felt he was sexually aroused during the treatment.

Following his arrest, Mooney presented his certificate to officers as evidence of his professional qualifications, but it was swiftly discovered to be a forgery.

Mooney, from Woodgrange Gardens in Enfield, London, was later charged. He pleaded guilty to four counts of sexual assault and possessing an article for use in a fraud at Maidstone Crown Court.

On Tuesday November 12, 2024, the 44-year-old was sentenced to three years and four months' imprisonment. He will also be subject to a sexual harm prevention order indefinitely.

Detective Constable Gemma Willis said: "When women receive a massage to assist their recovery from injury or other ailments they expect to be treated by a qualified professional. These victims placed their trust in Mooney who had falsified his credentials.

"He then went on to abuse them when they were at their most vulnerable. ‘Mooney is an appalling predatory individual who has left women feeling violated by his actions.

"I can only hope his imprisonment allows them some closure following the ordeal they all suffered."

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