Southfield Massage Therapist Pleads Guilty Sexual Assault Grand Rapids Township

Dana Piper, a 63-year-old massage therapist from Southfield, pleaded guilty to aggravated assault following allegations of inappropriate touching during a trauma massage therapy session in Grand Rapids Township in early 2024. Investigators found that Piper removed sheets covering the patient unnecessarily and touched body parts inconsistent with massage therapy practices. He also recommended pelvic floor therapy, which is not permitted for massage therapists under Michigan state regulations. Originally charged with fourth-degree criminal sexual conduct, Piper accepted a plea deal that dropped the sexual assault charge in exchange for pleading no contest to aggravated assault. He is scheduled for sentencing in November 2025. The Kent County Sheriff's Office emphasized that the case demonstrates their commitment to thoroughly investigating victim reports to ensure accountability and community safety.