'Energy therapist' jailed for sexual assaults

A self-described "body and energy therapist" has been jailed for 11 years for sexually assaulting a client multiple times.

Gerald Peck, from Brighton, told his victim - a woman in her 40s - penetration and intimate touching were the "only way" to ease her pain during therapy sessions, Sussex Police said.

The 77-year-old had claimed he was an accredited psychotherapist, though he was not recognised by any UK psychotherapy umbrella organisation.

"Peck lied to the woman repeatedly, saying that the sexual acts were part of the therapy and not for his own sexual gratification," said Daniel Harrison from the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS).

"She was cruelly and intentionally deceived," he continued.

"The law makes it clear that consent obtained by deception is not consent."

Peck was sentenced at Lewes Crown Court on Thursday after a jury found him guilty of three charges of sexual assault and two of sexual assault by penetration.

He was also ordered to pay the victim £9,730 in compensation for therapy costs.

Peck told police he had developed his "own niche treatment", though admitted he got "carried away", the CPS said.

Det Con Jazz Gannon praised the victim's "courage and determination", which she said were central to securing the conviction.

"Her strength has brought accountability and highlighted the critical importance of maintaining clear, ethical boundaries between therapists and those they are entrusted to support," she said.

"We hope her bravery encourages greater awareness, accountability, and stronger safeguarding within therapeutic environments."

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