A Santa Rosa man is behind bars following allegations of sexual assault during a “spiritual cleansing” at his Monterey County business.
The Press Democrat reports Diego Andres Alape, owner of Botanica Y Esperanza in Marina, was arrested on suspicion of sexual battery by fraud and penetration with a foreign object.
Authorities say a woman sought spiritual healing at the shop in early April, only to be assaulted under the guise of a ritual. Investigators have since discovered the business lacked the proper permits or certifications required for any physical contact or massage services.
Alape is currently being held at the Monterey County Jail on $100,000 bail as city officials look into further code violations.
Police are continuing to investigate and urge anyone with additional information to come forward.