A 77-year-old therapist from Brighton, Gerald Peck, has been sentenced to 11 years in prison for sexually abusing a female client during therapy sessions. Peck, who identified himself as a body and energy therapist, was found guilty of two counts of assault by penetration and three counts of sexual assault.
The victim, a woman in her 40s, reported that Peck had assaulted her multiple times over a prolonged period while claiming that the inappropriate contact was part of her therapy for depression and physical pain. Peck manipulated the victim by asserting that skin-to-skin contact and intimate touching were necessary for her treatment, exploiting her trust as a therapist.
Peck was convicted on all five charges of sexual assault of a female at Lewes Crown Court and was subsequently sentenced to 11 years in prison. Detective Constable Jazz Gannon commended the victim for her courage in coming forward, highlighting the importance of maintaining ethical boundaries in therapeutic relationships. The victim’s bravery is expected to raise awareness and improve safeguarding measures in therapeutic settings.
If you have been a victim of sexual violence or know someone who has, support services are available. You can report incidents to the police online, via 101, or by calling 999 in emergencies. For more information on available support and advice, visit the Sussex Police website.
