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@Multcoso
On November 14, 2020, James Monje Lara of Affinity Wellness Massage, (110 E Historic Columbia River Drive #3 Troutdale, OR), was taken into custody by the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) following an investigation opened by MCSO after a client reported experiencing sexual abuse while receiving a massage. Shortly after being taken into custody, Mr. Monje Lara posted bail and was released. After search warrants were executed, it was discovered that Mr. Monje Lara had recorded a number of videos of himself sexually abusing clients while they received massages from him. These videos and sex acts were done without the clients’ knowledge or consent. Following the discovery of new evidence, MCSO detectives took action to take Mr. Monje Lara back into custody with the intention of referring additional charges to the Multnomah County District Attorney’s (MCDA) office for review; unfortunately, detectives discovered that Mr. Monje Lara had taken his own life while out on bail. As a result, MCSO and MCDA are unable to move forward with any criminal case against Mr. Monje Lara.
After uncovering evidence of many additional and previously unidentified victims, detectives from MCSO and Victim Advocates from MCDA partnered together to create a plan to best support victims. Victims were contacted, informed of the findings, and offered support and information about available resources. MCSO has contacted and identified all of the victims, and has found no evidence that any additional videos exist. In order to honor their right to privacy, no additional information regarding these cases will be released.
If you have had contact with Mr. Monje Lara and have any concerns about having been abused, or would like to report any information, please contact MCSO at 503-255-3600. They will continue to work closely with MCDA and help evaluate if additional interviews would be appropriate and make referrals to advocacy or support services.
MCSO and MCDA acknowledge the isolation and harm that can come from acts of sexual violence, these impacts ripple out into communities, family systems and can impact individuals throughout their lifetime. If you are a survivor of sexual violence, you are not alone. Regardless of how much time has passed since the abuse occurred, support and services are available.
Please reach out for support: