SPORTS MASSAGE THERAPIST JAILED FOR SEXUAL ASSAULT OF MALE CLIENTS

A sports massager therapist has been sentenced after being convicted of sexually assaulting two male clients. The incident took place at his premises where he performed massages. Kevin Bartlett, aged 63, was found guilty by a unanimous jury verdict after a two-week trial at Antrim Crown Court in Belfast. The court heard that Bartlett had previously faced nine charges related to four alleged incidents dating from February 11 to December 4, 2020. During the trial, Bartlett claimed that his actions, particularly the touching of the first client, were consensual because the client asked him to do so. He also stated that he had been qualified and practicing as a sports masseuse for over 15 years and was involved with rugby clubs, including creating an LGBT inclusive rugby club. Bartlett admitted to crossing the line with the first client but maintained it was consensual and similarly denied any sexual contact with the second victim, claiming his account was fabricated. However, the jury rejected his explanation, accepting the victims' accounts of abuse on Bartlett's massage table. Judge Roseanne McCormick KC sentenced Bartlett to a seven-year jail term, with the first half to be served in custody and the second half under supervised license. Additionally, Bartlett must sign the police sex offenders register for life. Following sentencing, a police spokesperson emphasized the importance of reporting sexual offences and assured victims that trained detectives would treat their cases with sensitivity.