Gilbert massage therapist accused of sex crimes

GILBERT, Ariz. - A man working as a massage therapist in Gilbert has been arrested for allegedly committing sex crimes.According to police, Raul Perez Ochoa was arrested on May 30 for alleged sexual offenses committed by him while working as a massage therapist.

"Ochoa is believed to have worked at massage therapy establishments and as a freelance massage therapist in the East Valley," police said in a news release.

Police are asking anyone in Gilbert who may be a victim of Ochoa to come forward and contact them at 480-503-6500.

UPDATE: On June 6, Gilbert Police stated that Ochoa had worked at the Hand & Stone Massage and Facial Spa in Queen Creek and El Bella Day Spa in Gilbert.

A Hand & Stone spokesperson released a statement about the case:

"In October 2022, six months prior to his arrest, the massage therapist’s employment with Hand & Stone Massage & Facial Spa ended. The accused is not permitted to return to the spa. Hand & Stone will continue to cooperate with authorities in their investigation. The Queen Creek Hand & Stone Massage and Facial Spa is an independently owned and operated franchise location.

Hand & Stone has a zero-tolerance policy related to inappropriate behavior at all locations. Franchisees adhere to a rigorous spa safety program designed to prioritize the safety of its guests and service providers. All franchise locations are trained on strict hiring and screening tools, therapist training and prevention, reporting and investigation policies. 

Additionally, all Hand & Stone guests are provided with a Customer Bill of Rights when they enter the spa and are informed by the massage therapist that an attention button exists under the table if they or the therapist becomes uncomfortable. Ultimately, Hand & Stone has an uncompromising commitment to creating and maintaining a safe and respectful environment for its guests and service providers."