Masseur jailed for sexually assaulting clients

Ian Nicholls, 64, has been jailed for four years for sexually assaulting women

A massage therapist has been jailed for four years for sexually assaulting three women who were his clients.

Ian Nicholls, 64, took advantage of the naked or partially clothed women as he gave them massages at his rented workplace in Newton Abbot, Devon, between 2018 and 2021.

A jury convicted Nicholls four counts of sexual assault at an earlier trial.

Judge David Evans said the three women suffered "real and enduring harm" and he commended them for their bravery.

The judge said Nicholls had their home addresses when they booked a massage session with him and this exacerbated the psychological impact on them

One victim told the court: "He knew what he was doing was wrong.

"He was in full control. He continued to believe no one would report him to the police."

Another victim said she "froze" and felt "ashamed and embarrassed" by his actions which affected her confidence and trust in others.

'Abused position of trust'

Nicholls, who retired in 2023 and who had no previous convictions, was jailed for four years and placed on the Sex Offenders' register for life.

Det Con Tia Smallridge said: "We welcome the sentence given to Ian Nicholls, who abused his position of trust in the worst possible way.

"We hope this sentence reassures victims of sexual offending that all allegations will be taken seriously and thoroughly investigated by our officers."