North Branch Man Charged With Felony After Spa Assault

Nathan Adam Thornsberry, a 44-year-old resident of North Branch, stands accused of sexually assaulting a woman during a routine massage appointment. The incident occurred at a spa in Rochester Hills on Aug. 12, leading to a felony charge filed by Oakland County authorities.

Prosecutors allege that Thornsberry touched the victim's intimate areas and used his finger to sexually assault her while she was receiving treatment. The woman instructed Thornsberry to stop, but he continued touching her as he pulled his hand away, according to the complaint.

The Oakland County Prosecutor’s Office has charged Thornsberry with third-degree criminal sexual conduct. A conviction for this offense carries a maximum prison sentence of 15 years. The office did not release the name of the specific spa where the incident took place.

Prosecutor Karen McDonald emphasized the professional nature of the service and the trust placed in practitioners. "Massage and other therapeutic treatments are professional services. Customers have a right to expect to be treated professionally," McDonald stated. She added that the defendant allegedly abused his position of trust to violate the victim.

The case is now pending in Oakland County courts. Thornsberry has been arraigned and faces the felony charge, with sentencing to follow if he is found guilty or pleads.