Massage assault: Woman's life shattered by attack

A woman has endured two years of ongoing trauma and fear following a sexual assault during a massage appointment in Sydney. The victim, 32, was sexually assaulted and digitally raped by masseur Steven Goldberg, 69, during a two-hour session in October 2023. The attack has caused her to develop an intense fear of clinical settings, preventing her from seeking routine personal care like haircuts or dental visits.

In a statement read to Parramatta District Court, the woman detailed her profound suffering, expressing feelings of betrayal and violation. Goldberg was convicted of sexual intercourse without consent and sexual touching without consent in November. His sentencing is scheduled for February 2026, and he remains in custody.

The victim's father read her powerful statement, highlighting how her trust was shattered and her sense of safety compromised. She continues to grapple with anxiety, hypervigilance, and intrusive memories, describing her recovery as a lifelong challenge. Goldberg's defense argued he posed no risk, but the prosecution emphasized the need for a strong message to practitioners.