Justin L. Mack

justin.mack@Indystar.com

A Franklin massage therapist who is facing battery charges because of allegations that he fondled his clients has had his license suspended.

The Indiana State Board of Massage Therapy on Monday voted to immediately suspend the massage therapy license of Ryan B. Farmer, 24, who practiced massage therapy at CMG Family Wellness Center in Franklin.

Farmer was arrested on July 4 after three former clients told police that he inappropriately fondled and groped them during their sessions. He was charged in Johnson County with three counts of battery.

According to a news release from the office of Indiana Attorney General Greg Zoeller, a fourth client of Farmer’s has come forward and filed an additional police report alleging battery.

Zoeller’s office filed an emergency petition with the board to suspend Farmer’s license while the criminal charges are pending. During a Monday hearing, Farmer’s license was suspended for 90 days.

Massage therapist accused of fondling clients

“To protect the health and safety of the public, this license holder will not be able to perform massage therapy in the State of Indiana until these serious criminal allegations are resolved,” Zoeller said in a statement.

If an administrative complaint is filed against Farmer, the board would determine any further disciplinary action, such as further license suspension, revocation or fines.

Officials said some of the clients who are alleging inappropriate conduct by Farmer told investigators they purchased the massage from an online coupon service.

Court documents said that Farmer was shocked to hear the allegations after the first woman came forward in March and denied touching her. He is accused of then fondling two more women in May.

It is unclear when the fourth woman came forward and when she was a client at CMG. Farmer resigned after the allegations came to light.

According to online court records, a jury trial for the case will begin in November.

Call IndyStar reporter Justin L. Mack at (317) 444-6138. Follow him on Twitter:@justinlmack.