Consent Rules Highlighted in Massage Trial Testimony

At Saskatoon Court of King's Bench, a massage therapist who trained Kenneth Braun, 70, testified about client consent during his sexual assault trial. Braun is charged with three counts of sexual assault and one count of sexual exploitation of a young person, with allegations spanning from 1996 to 2022. The witness, Pam Fitchner, emphasized that obtaining client consent is a mandatory bylaw for the Massage Therapist Association of Saskatchewan (MTAS).

Fitchner, who specializes in breast massage and has practiced since 1997, explained that therapists must check in with clients before and during treatment. She highlighted that clients have the right to change consent at any time and decide on their clothing levels. Therapists are expected to protect client privacy through draping.

Under cross-examination, Fitchner confirmed that massage therapists might use vibrating devices and adjust treatment areas to address client issues. This testimony follows previous accounts from two former clients. One alleged Braun used a vibrating tool between her buttocks and legs, while another testified Braun touched her vagina with his fingers, an act that occurred twice.