ROCHESTER HILLS, Mich. (WWJ) — Oakland County authorities are asking potential victims to come forward following the arrest of a massage therapist accused of sexually assaulting a client during an appointment at a Rochester Hills spa.
Nathan Adam Thornsberry, 44, of North Branch in Lapeer County, faces one count of third-degree criminal sexual conduct, the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office announced Friday. Third-degree criminal sexual conduct is a felony punishable by up to 15 years in prison.
The investigation began in August after a woman reported to deputies at the Sheriff’s Office Rochester Hills Substation that Thornsberry sexually assaulted her during a massage session at a local spa where he was working. The Oakland County Prosecutor’s Office authorized the charge on Oct. 28.
The following day, the sheriff’s Fugitive Apprehension Team arrested Thornsberry at a different spa in Shelby Township where he had secured new employment.
“I’m proud of how quickly, and with a sense of urgency, our team investigated these allegations, located the suspect, and took him into custody” Sheriff Michael Bouchard said in a statement. “If there are any other victims out there, please contact us so we can hold him fully to account.”
Thornsberry was arraigned Oct. 30 in 53-2 District Court before Magistrate Holt, who set bond at $10,000, with a 10% cash or surety provision.
Since Thornsberry’s arrest became public through media reports, several other people have contacted authorities to report inappropriate sexual contact involving him. Investigators are actively looking into those accounts and believe additional people may have experienced similar conduct without reporting it to law enforcement.
Deputies are encouraging anyone who believes they were subjected to inappropriate sexual contact or misconduct by Thornsberry, whether at the Rochester Hills facility or another location, to contact investigators.
Anyone with information or who wishes to file a report is asked to call the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office Rochester Hills Substation at 248-537-3530.
