Watch CBS News

Second Sexual Abuse Lawsuit Filed Against Doral Golf Resort & Spa

DORAL (CBS4) – For the second time in two weeks, a South Florida woman has filed a sexual abuse lawsuit against the Doral Golf Resort & Spa after she claimed to be assaulted during a massage at the Marriott Resort luxury spa.

The new sexual assault lawsuit was announced Thursday by attorney Jeffrey Herman. His client, identified in the lawsuit as Jane Doe No. 2, claims masseur John J. Pacheco sexually assaulted her while giving her a massage in the spa, which is also affiliated with the Pritikin Longevity Center.

"I felt forced to come forward because I know there are other victims out there," said Jane Doe number 2. She called the incident, "a devastating nightmare I can't get rid of."

The woman, a frequent guest of the spa, said she went to the spa on the day in question because her husband had given her a gift certificate for their anniversary. But, according to Herman, the person who usually did her massage was not there and the spa recommended Pacheco.

According to Herman, Pacheco, "touched the victim in a grotesque, sexual manner against her will and without her consent," that left the victim in shock and stunned.

Pacheco is the second masseur to be accused of such an act at the Doral Golf Resort & Spa.

On Feb. 8th, a woman identified as Jane Doe No. 1 accused David Munoz, 27, of sexually assaulting her during a massage in January of 2011. Jane Doe No. 1 has sued the resort, Pritikin and Munoz for more than $5 million. Munoz was charged with one count of sexual battery and released on bond. It's still unknown whether any charges have been filed against Pacheco.

After the first incident, Doral Golf Resort and Spa released this statement:

"The authorities are currently investigating the matter. We are cooperating fully during the investigation. Because this is an ongoing investigation and we respect the privacy of all our guests and associates, it would be inappropriate to comment further."

Through its public relations agency, Pritikin denied any connection with the incident.

"While Pritikin leases space at the Doral Resort for its medical, fitness and dining facilities, and uses the spa facility for its customers, Pritikin did not employ the massage therapist, and the customer was never a customer of Pritikin," the company said in a statement. "Pritikin does not own, operate or manage the Doral Spa, and does not employ any of its staff."

Attorneys representing both victims said that in the next few weeks they will be filing additional lawsuits for women who allege that they were also sexually assaulted while at the Doral Resort & Spa.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.