A 77-year-old therapist from Brighton has been sentenced to 11 years in prison for sexually abusing a patient under the guise of legitimate treatment. Gerald Peck, of York Villas, Brighton, who advertised himself as a private body and energy therapist, was found guilty of multiple serious sexual offences against a female client.
Abuse Disguised as Therapy
The victim, a woman in her 40s, sought Peck's services after he advertised treatments that he claimed would alleviate her depression and physical pain. During therapy sessions over an extended period, Peck sexually assaulted her multiple times while presenting the abuse as necessary treatment.
Peck told the victim that skin-to-skin contact was essential for her trauma treatment and claimed that penetration and intimate touching were the only ways to relieve her tension. By framing this abusive behaviour as legitimate therapy, Peck exploited his position of trust and violated all professional boundaries.
Court Proceedings and Sentencing
Peck was arrested and charged before being found guilty on Wednesday, 4 February 2024, at Lewes Crown Court on all five counts of sexual assault of a female. On Thursday, 12 March, he was sentenced at the same court to 11 years in prison.
In addition to the prison sentence, Peck received a restraining order and was ordered to pay the victim £9,730 in compensation for therapy costs within 10 months. The compensation order acknowledges the financial burden the victim incurred as a result of Peck's abuse.
Police Response and Victim's Courage
Detective Constable Jazz Gannon of Sussex Police praised the victim's courage and determination, stating that her strength was central to securing the conviction. "Her resilience throughout this process has been essential in revealing the truth," Gannon said.
The detective added that the case highlights the critical importance of maintaining clear, ethical boundaries between therapists and their clients. "We hope her bravery encourages greater awareness, accountability, and stronger safeguarding within therapeutic environments," Gannon continued.
Broader Implications for Therapeutic Services
This case has raised significant concerns about safeguarding practices within private therapeutic services. The victim's willingness to speak out has helped raise awareness across services, ensuring similar reports are recognised and addressed more effectively in the future.
The sentencing sends a strong message about the serious consequences of professional misconduct and abuse of trust within therapeutic relationships. It underscores the need for robust vetting procedures and clear reporting mechanisms for clients who experience inappropriate behaviour during therapy sessions.
Support services remain available for anyone affected by sexual violence, with police encouraging victims to report incidents through appropriate channels for investigation and support.
