Florida Massage Therapist Suspended After Molestation Allegations

In May 2025, the Florida Department of Health took the significant step of immediately suspending a massage therapist’s license after Florida police accused her of inappropriately touching a young patient. The therapist in question, 56-year-old Yasmina Ponce Rodriguez, now faces not only the prospect of permanently losing her professional license, but also a permanent criminal record. But why are personal service providers and healthcare professionals so vulnerable to receiving such complaints, and how can they protect themselves against license suspension or revocation?

While there are no straightforward answers to these questions, the case against Rodriguez should serve as a warning to any service professional as to how sensitive the patient-professional boundary is–– and how anyone could find themselves on the receiving end of patient complaints or even criminal charges. Let’s consider the case against Rodriguez and what steps you might take if you’re facing similar accusations.

Your professional license is invaluable. Respond to any complaints or accusations as quickly and effectively as possible with the LLF National Law Firm Professional License Defense Team on your side. Tell us about your case online or call 888.535.3686 to retain our attorneys.

The Accusations Against Rodriguez

The victim alleges that Rodriguez exposed and “manually manipulated” his genitals during a massage session on March 1 at the Trump National Doral Golf Club. He alleges that he attempted to slap her hands away, and at this point, she ceased the act.

Rodriguez now faces allegations of lewd and lascivious touching, and as an emergency measure, the Florida Department of Health suspended her license on April 23. Rodriguez firmly denies the accusations, but in the meantime, at least until the case concludes, she has no license to continue working as a massage therapist in the state.

How Licensed Professionals Can Protect Themselves

The reality is that any service provider, including doctors, nurses, massage therapists, and physical therapists, could find themselves facing accusations of crossing professional boundaries–– or even patient assault. The nature of the consultations and the tests performed means they often take place behind closed doors, which makes it challenging for professionals to defend themselves against patient allegations. Regulatory boards exist to enforce professional standards and protect the public, meaning they will investigate most complaints received. And although it’s uncommon, boards can suspend licenses, or at least place restrictions on licenses, until investigations conclude.

Given how serious the consequences of patient complaints can be, it’s crucial that professionals take steps to protect themselves. For example, since these jobs often require direct contact, providers should make use of chaperones where possible, and always double-check that patients are happy to have a specific physical examination or test before proceeding.

But no matter how careful you are, complaints happen, and your best response is to immediately retain the LLF National Law Firm Team to help you understand your legal rights, explore your options, and effectively present your side of the story to your regulatory board. As a medical or service professional, your license is critical to your career. Don’t leave anything to chance if you’re facing patient or client accusations. Retain the LLF National Law Firm Professional License Defense Team urgently by reaching out online or calling 888.535.3686.