Ian Nicholls, the Newton Abbot Sex Offender, a masseur from Devon, has received a four-year prison sentence after being found guilty of sexually assaulting three clients.
Ian Nicholls, 64, formerly of Newton Abbot, appeared at Exeter Crown Court for sentence on Friday, 24 October, having been convicted at a trial of four sexual assaults.
Ian Nicholls was acquitted of the sexual assault allegations made by a fourth accuser. He is required to register on the Sex Offenders’ Register for life.
During the trial, the court learnt that Nicholls was employed as a massage therapist in Newton Abbot at the time of the charges.
The initial claim was revealed in 2019, whereby the victim recounted that Ian Nicholls engaged in inappropriate sexual contact during a massage. Ian Nicholls additionally made improper remarks to the victim.
Ian Nicholls was interrogated concerning the offence; however, the claim was not pursued at that time due to evidential challenges. After revelations from other victims, the complainant was re-engaged and expressed her support for reopening her case.
In 2021, a second victim emerged, recounting how Ian Nicholls exposed and sexually attacked her during a massage.
After the second complaint, Ian Nicholls’ work was terminated, prompting his attendance at the clinic, which resulted in the police being summoned.
Following a statement from the clinic owner and manager, a further victim was identified.
A statement was recorded in which she recounted receiving a coupon from a friend and that during a massage, Ian Nicholls sexually abused her.
All victims recounted experiencing paralysis throughout the abuse due to Ian Nicholls’ imposing physique, and felt disinclined to challenge his behaviour while they were isolated with him in the building.
They all described almost identical incidents and feeling vulnerable, exposed and frightened.
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