Tufts University has taken the significant step of issuing a formal advisory to its students and staff, cautioning them against using the services of a Somerville-based massage therapist who has been popular within the campus community for years. The university has also barred the practitioner, Sam Peck of Soarbody Therapeutics, from its campus and initiated a third-party review following reports of inappropriate conduct.
The advisory, distributed on Friday, cited concerns over “inappropriate comments, conduct, and practices” reported by some individuals. In response, the university has launched a formal review and referred the matter to local law enforcement for further investigation.
Key Takeaways
- Tufts University issued a safety advisory warning students and staff to avoid Sam Peck of Soarbody Therapeutics.
- The university has received reports alleging "inappropriate comments, conduct, and practices."
- A no-trespass order has been issued, banning Peck from all university property.
- An external law firm, Cozen O’Connor, is conducting a formal review of the matter.
- The therapist, Sam Peck, has publicly stated he is unaware of any wrongdoing and has always treated clients with respect.
University Takes Decisive Action
In a move described as being made "out of an abundance of caution," Tufts University administration sent a community-wide email on Friday. The communication strongly advised community members to seek alternative providers for massage therapy services based on information gathered so far.
The university confirmed it has no formal affiliation with Sam Peck or his practice, Soarbody Therapeutics. A spokesperson clarified that Peck was never employed by the school and is not an alumnus, despite his long-standing popularity among students, particularly athletes.
Formal Measures Implemented
Beyond the advisory, Tufts has implemented several concrete measures. A no-trespass order has been officially issued, legally prohibiting Peck from entering any part of the university's campus. Additionally, a cease-and-desist order was sent to Soarbody Therapeutics, demanding an end to any solicitation of the Tufts community.
These actions underscore the seriousness with which the university is treating the allegations. The administration emphasized that the safety and welfare of its community members are the primary motivators for these steps.
Independent Investigation Launched
To ensure an impartial examination of the concerns, Tufts has engaged the law firm Cozen O’Connor. The firm will partner with the university's Office of Equal Opportunity (OEO) to conduct a thorough review of Soarbody's interactions with individuals from the Tufts community. The findings of this review are expected to guide the university's next steps.
Therapist Expresses Confusion Over Allegations
Sam Peck, the therapist at the center of the advisory, has responded to the university's actions with surprise. In a statement to local media, he expressed confusion about the origin and nature of the allegations.
"I’m not sure what Tufts is getting at. I can’t imagine that I’ve ever hurt anybody," Peck stated. "This is my heart and soul. I’ve been doing this since 2007."
Peck defended his professional conduct, asserting that he has always operated within his scope of practice. He highlighted his long career and the positive feedback he has received over the years.
"I’ve always treated my athletes with respect with my scope of practice and with the way things are done in sports massage," he added. Peck pointed to numerous positive online reviews as evidence of client satisfaction, stating, "All my athletes that I know of... they’re very happy, so I’m not sure what Tufts University wants."
Soarbody Therapeutics' Specialization
According to its website, Soarbody Therapeutics focuses on performance and maintenance treatments for athletes. The practice offers services aimed at treating and preventing chronic athletic injuries and addressing soft-tissue pain and tension, which likely contributed to its popularity among student-athletes.
Next Steps and Potential Consequences
The situation is now proceeding on multiple fronts. The independent review by Cozen O’Connor will continue to gather information from members of the Tufts community. The university has encouraged anyone with relevant experiences to come forward and speak with the investigators.
Referral to Law Enforcement and Licensing Board
Tufts has also taken the step of referring the information it has gathered to local law enforcement. This move shifts the matter into a new phase, where a potential criminal investigation could be initiated depending on the evidence.
Furthermore, the university has stated its intention to share relevant findings with the state's massage therapy licensing board once its internal review is complete. This could have significant professional consequences for Peck, as licensing boards have the authority to suspend or revoke professional credentials based on findings of misconduct.
For now, the university's advisory remains in effect, and students and staff are being urged to exercise caution and consider the information provided when making decisions about their health and wellness providers.