Jay Steel receives suspended sentence for sexual assault

Jay Steel, 64, has been given a 12-month prison sentence, suspended for 18 months, after being convicted of sexually assaulting a female client in May 2016. The conviction follows previous findings of guilt for sexual assaults in 2017 and 2019. Snaresbrook Crown Court heard that the victim felt 'powerless' and 'frozen' during the hour-long attack.

Details of the assault

The incident occurred in May 2016 when Steel was working as a masseur. The victim had booked a deep tissue massage and reported that the assault involved unwanted touching of her bottom and genitals over clothing. The prosecutor, Andrew Dowden, told the court that Steel had made an audio recording of the incident. Judge Alexia Power noted that the victim was 'frightened' and felt unable to leave the room easily.

Steel, who represented himself in court, denied the allegations, claiming he had only performed a 'back treatment'. He disputed a report that described him as having 'predatory tendencies'. The court heard that the victim came forward after learning of Steel's earlier convictions.

Court's sentencing and restrictions

In addition to the suspended sentence, Steel was ordered to complete 120 hours of unpaid work. He is now subject to a sexual harm prevention order lasting for 10 years. This order prohibits him from working as a masseur or sports therapist. Steel must also pay a statutory surcharge. As reported by MyLondon, the victim stated she felt 'powerless' during the assault.