UPDATE: A massage therapist, Steven Goldberg, is facing serious charges of sexual assault following a disturbing testimony in the Parramatta District Court today. The allegations stem from a massage appointment booked after praise on the popular Kyle and Jackie O Show in October 2023.
A 32-year-old woman has recounted a harrowing experience during a two-hour session with Goldberg at his studio in Dover Heights, Sydney. She described feeling “frozen in fear” as she was allegedly assaulted, claiming that Goldberg doused her in oil and perpetrated acts of sexual violence. “I felt in a lot of pain,” she stated, emphasizing the trauma of the encounter.
Goldberg, who has pleaded not guilty to charges of sexual intercourse without consent and sexual touching without consent, has maintained that he believed the woman was consenting. This trial comes after the woman had booked her appointment based on the radio show’s endorsement, where host Jackie O had described Goldberg’s massages as “fantastic” and transformative.
Testifying on Thursday, the alleged victim detailed how the massage began normally, but took a dark turn after about 90 minutes. She reported that Goldberg instructed her to turn over, leaving her exposed, and began to massage her breasts and groin area. “He then asked, ‘Are we alright to keep going?'” she told the jury, asserting that she believed he was referring to the massage itself.
In a shocking twist, the woman claimed she faked an orgasm in an attempt to make him stop. Following the incident, she confided in friends and contacted the police the next day.
Prosecutor Ann Bonnor highlighted the importance of consent, pointing out that Goldberg did not indicate any sexual nature of the services during the appointment. Defense barrister April Francis argued that Goldberg believed he had consent, disputing the nature of the pre-assault conversation.
The case has drawn significant media attention, especially given the radio show’s reach and influence. Jackie O and co-host Kyle Sandilands have made it clear that they did not suggest any sexual implications regarding Goldberg’s massages. The jury has been made aware that the show did not promote his services as sexual in nature.
In a recorded phone call made on October 26, 2023, Goldberg reportedly apologized to the woman and offered her a complimentary massage, which she firmly rejected. “There definitely will be no way in hell I’d come back or refer anyone to you,” she stated, underscoring her revulsion over the encounter.
Goldberg’s defense is focusing on the argument that there was no explicit verbal indication from the woman to stop the massage. As the trial proceeds, the jury is tasked with determining whether Goldberg reasonably believed that consent was given for the actions he allegedly took.
This case highlights critical issues surrounding consent and the responsibility of influencers in promoting services. The trial continues, and as more details emerge, the emotional ramifications of this case are likely to resonate widely.
If you or someone you know is affected by sexual violence, support is available through 1800 RESPECT at 1800 737 732.
