Gerald Peck of York Villas, Brighton, who described himself as a body and energy therapist, was sentenced to 11 years in prison for two counts of assault by penetration and three counts of sexual assault of a female. He also received a restraining order and was ordered to pay the victim £9,730 in compensation for therapy costs within 10 months.

The victim, a woman in her 40s, reported that Peck, 77, sexually assaulted her multiple times over an extended period during therapy sessions.

She sought Peck’s services after he advertised himself as a private body and energy therapist. He claimed his treatment would alleviate her depression and physical pain.

During therapy, Peck told the victim that skin-to-skin contact was necessary and claimed that such contact was part of her treatment for trauma. He further stated that penetration and intimate touching would be the only way to relieve her tension as part of the therapy. By presenting this as legitimate therapy, Peck used his position of trust to justify behaviour that was inappropriate, abusive, and entirely outside any acceptable professional boundaries.

Peck was arrested, charged, and on Wednesday, 4 February 2024, at Lewes Crown Court Peck was found guilty on all five counts of sexual assault of a female. On Thursday (12 March), he was sentenced at Lewes Crown Court, to 11 years in prison.

Detective Constable Jazz Gannon said: “The victim’s courage and determination were central to securing the sentence for serious sexual offences committed by a therapist against his client.

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

“We hope her bravery encourages greater awareness, accountability, and stronger safeguarding within therapeutic environments. Her resilience throughout this process has been essential in revealing the truth, and her willingness to speak out has helped raise awareness across services, ensuring similar reports are recognised and addressed more effectively in the future.”

If you or someone you know has been affected by sexual violence, support services are available. You are not alone.

Report it to the police online, via 101, or by calling 999 in an emergency. We will support you and do everything we can to get you justice.

For information about support and advice available to victims, please visit the Sussex Police website.