A fake therapist from Brighton has been slammed with an 11-year jail sentence for sexually assaulting a vulnerable client during bogus “therapy” sessions.
Gerald Peck’s Sickening Abuse Uncovered
Gerald Peck, 77, of York Villas, Brighton, was sentenced at Lewes Crown Court after being found guilty of two counts of assault by penetration and three counts of sexual assault.
Pretending to be a private body and energy therapist, Peck targeted a woman in her 40s who sought help for depression and physical pain.
He claimed skin-to-skin contact was “necessary” and lied that intimate touching and penetration were legitimate parts of his therapy, supposedly to ease trauma and tension.
Exploiting Trust, Crossing Every Line
Peck abused his position of trust, twisting professional boundaries to carry out his vile acts. The court branded his conduct as inappropriate, abusive, and far beyond anything acceptable in therapy.
Following his arrest and trial, a jury convicted Peck on all five sexual offence charges on 4 February. On 12 March, he was handed an 11-year prison sentence and a restraining order.
He was also ordered to pay £9,730 in compensation to his victim for therapy costs within 10 months.
Police Praise Victim’s Bravery
“The victim’s courage and determination were central to securing justice,” said Detective Constable Jazz Gannon of Sussex Police.
“This case highlights the critical need for clear and ethical boundaries between therapists and clients.”
The police hope this conviction will encourage other victims of sexual violence to speak out and seek support.
If you have been affected by sexual violence, you can report it online, call 101, or dial 999 in an emergency. Support services are available for anyone in need.
