Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin and the Division of Consumer Affairs have announced that the New Jersey Board of Massage and Bodywork Therapy has permanently revoked the license of Essex County massage therapist Peter Petrovic, also known as Jagadisha Peter Petrovic. This decision follows allegations of inappropriate sexual conduct with a female client during a massage session.
Petrovic agreed to an arrangement with the Board to resolve accusations that he groped and digitally penetrated a client in his Verona, NJ office in 2020. The agreement, formalized in a Final Consent Order filed on December 23, 2024, requires Petrovic to surrender his license immediately, effectively barring him from practicing massage therapy in New Jersey indefinitely.
"No client should ever have to fear being sexually exploited or abused while interacting with a licensed professional in New Jersey," stated Attorney General Platkin. "We take allegations of sexual misconduct by professionals very seriously and will rigorously investigate and hold accountable licensees that prey on the clients who trust them."
Cari Fais, Director of the Division of Consumer Affairs, added, "While the majority of massage therapists conduct themselves professionally and follow strict standards, the actions of a rogue few can cause immeasurable harm to clients and adversely impact the profession as a whole. By permanently barring this licensee from practice, we’re not only protecting the public; we’re sending a clear message that this conduct will not be tolerated."
The alleged victim identified as “Client 1” was reportedly receiving therapeutic massage for chronic pain management when Petrovic allegedly engaged in inappropriate contact during a July 2020 session. Following these allegations, an investigation led to a Verified Complaint against Petrovic seeking revocation of his license due to violations including engaging in sexual contact with a client.
As per terms outlined in the Final Consent Order, Petrovic must cease representing himself as a massage therapist and stop all related practices within New Jersey. He is further prohibited from any form of client contact or financial involvement in massage services rendered by others.
The case was managed by Deputy Attorneys General Cristina E. Ramundo and Yudelka Felipe under Section Chief Doreen A. Hafner's supervision within the Professional Boards Prosecution Section at the Division of Law's Affirmative Civil Enforcement Practice Group.
Patients suspecting misconduct by licensed professionals can file complaints through the State Division of Consumer Affairs' website or via phone numbers provided for residents within New Jersey.
