The trial against Gabriel Prato Ovalles, a man accused of sexually assaulting a tourist while giving a massage, took a considerable amount of time in court. The incident occurred last year in December at a hotel, where the tourist had employed his massage services to relax.
Prato Ovalles admitted that something sexual took place but claimed it happened with the client’s consent, who was on vacation with her spouse.
During the treatment, it was revealed that he kissed the woman, intimately touched her, and even used his fingers to penetrate her. He then undressed and got on top of her. Ultimately, he decided to stop as there were only five minutes left in the session.
His lawyer presented evidence that hotel cameras showed the woman was very calm after the massage. Also, when speaking to the police, she appeared calm and, according to the lawyer, the spouse seemed more agitated.
The man declared that when his wife returned to the room, she told him she wasn’t feeling well and went to the bathroom. When she came out, she said, “I need to talk to you,” and told him what had happened. They immediately alerted the police.
For the Public Prosecutor, the crime is proven. They argue that Prato Ovalles abused his profession and the tourist, damaging the reputation of the island, which relies on tourism.
Considering similar cases, the prosecutor asked the court to declare him guilty and impose a four-year prison sentence, along with a four-year prohibition from practicing as a masseur.
The complainant and her spouse were present in the courtroom. The woman stated that she traveled two thousand miles to inform the judge that she only wanted a massage and did not consent to anything else.
The judge announced that the sentencing will take place in three weeks.
