NJ Board Permanently Revokes Massage Therapist’s License Over Alleged Sexual Misconduct

State authorities claim therapist violated professional conduct rules by inappropriately touching a female client.

In a decisive measure aimed at protecting public safety, the New Jersey Board of Massage and Bodywork Therapy has permanently revoked the license of Essex County massage therapist Peter Petrovic, also known as Jagadisha Peter Petrovic, following accusations that he engaged in unwanted sexual contact with a female client. The agreement, announced by Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin and the Division of Consumer Affairs, ensures Petrovic can no longer practice massage therapy in New Jersey.

Alleged Incident and Investigation

According to documents filed in the case, the allegations stem from a July 2020 session in Verona, New Jersey, where Petrovic was providing therapeutic massage to assist with chronic pain management. During the session, the alleged victim—referred to as “Client 1”—reported that Petrovic “inappropriately touched” her while she was lying unclothed under a blanket on a massage table.

An investigation conducted by the Enforcement Bureau within the Division of Consumer Affairs concluded that Petrovic’s conduct violated professional standards. The State subsequently filed a Verified Complaint with the Board, alleging Petrovic breached rules prohibiting sexual contact with a client and other acts deemed gross negligence or malpractice.

“No client should ever have to fear being sexually exploited or abused while interacting with a licensed professional in New Jersey,” said Attorney General Platkin. “We take allegations of sexual misconduct by professionals very seriously and will rigorously investigate and hold accountable licensees that prey on the clients who trust them.”

Legal Resolution

In a Final Consent Order filed on December 23, 2024, Petrovic “agreed to immediately surrender his license to practice massage therapy in New Jersey, with such surrender to be deemed a permanent revocation with no possibility to reapply.” Under the terms, he must cease and desist from holding himself out as a massage therapist or practicing in any capacity within the state. Additionally, he must discontinue all client contact and is barred from charging, receiving, or sharing fees for any massage or bodywork services.

State Officials’ Role

The State was represented in this matter by Deputy Attorneys General Cristina E. Ramundo and Yudelka Felipe, under the supervision of Section Chief Doreen A. Hafner, of the Professional Boards Prosecution Section, within the Affirmative Civil Enforcement Practice Group of the Division of Law.

Attorney General Platkin reiterated the importance of upholding public trust in healthcare and bodywork services:

“Patients who believe that they have been treated by a licensed professional in an inappropriate manner can file an online complaint with the State Division of Consumer Affairs by visiting its website or by calling 1-800-242-5846 (toll free within New Jersey) or 973-504-6200.”

With Petrovic’s permanent revocation, officials underscore that safeguarding clients remains at the forefront of professional licensing and regulatory standards in New Jersey.