A troubling case in Chattanooga has sparked concern and outrage among local residents and clients of Massage Envy at Hamilton Place. According to recent reports, a former employee, Kenneth Spears, is under investigation for allegedly using his cell phone to secretly record clients while they were dressing and undressing in a private massage room. Multiple incidents and multiple victims have been reported. Spears was terminated from Massage Envy in September 2024 but it is alleged that recordings of victims occurred over the multiple years of his employment.
This case has led to multiple victims being identified, and while the investigation remains open and active, no formal arrest has been made yet. Chattanooga police have confirmed the ongoing nature of the investigation but have not released any public police reports at this time.
Unfortunately, this incident is not isolated. A 2017 BuzzFeed News investigation uncovered over 180 allegations of sexual misconduct involving Massage Envy employees and franchise locations nationwide. Although the Chattanooga location was not named in that earlier report, the new allegations revive concerns about client safety and proper oversight in spa and massage environments.
Know Your Rights: Privacy Violations in Massage and Spa Settings
When you visit a massage therapist or spa, you trust that your privacy and safety will be respected. In Tennessee, it is illegal to secretly record someone in a private setting without their knowledge or consent. This includes any location where a person has a reasonable expectation of privacy, such as a massage room.
Victims of unlawful recording may suffer not only emotional distress but may also be vulnerable to further exploitation if footage is shared or distributed. In cases like this, legal action may be available through both civil and criminal channels. Civil claims can seek compensation for emotional harm, invasion of privacy, and other damages. Criminal charges may also apply, including illegal surveillance and harassment.
How Best & Brock Can Help
At Best & Brock, we believe that everyone deserves to feel safe and respected—especially in environments that are meant to promote wellness and healing. If you or anyone you know has had a massage at the Hamilton Place Massage Envy and believe you might have been secretly recorded or otherwise had your privacy violated, we are here to stand with you. Do not hesitate to contact our office.
Our experienced legal team can help you understand your rights, work with law enforcement, and pursue civil claims if you have been harmed. We approach each case with compassion, discretion, and a commitment to seeking justice for our clients.
Don’t suffer in silence. If you suspect you’ve been the victim of unlawful recording or any form of misconduct, contact Best & Brock today for a confidential consultation. Let us help you protect your rights and hold those responsible accountable.
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- Jeremy Forgey
- Chris Griffin