The New Jersey Board of Massage and Bodywork Therapy has temporarily suspended the license of David Bittner, a massage therapist from Somerset County, following his arrest on charges of criminal sexual assault against a client. The announcement was made by Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin and the Division of Consumer Affairs.
Bittner, who practiced in Hillsborough Township, was arrested on June 6, 2025. He faces a second-degree sexual assault charge for allegedly touching a woman inappropriately during a massage session at his workplace.
According to an interim consent order filed with the Board, Bittner agreed to have his license suspended while the criminal case is ongoing and until further action is taken by the Board.
Attorney General Platkin stated, “Licensed professionals who exploit the trust of their clients for their own sexual gratification are a public danger that will not be tolerated. When criminal sexual conduct is alleged, it is imperative that alleged perpetrators are removed from practice until those charges are resolved.”
Elizabeth M. Harris, Acting Director of the Division of Consumer Affairs, added: “There is no place in our massage therapy industry for professionals who cannot be trusted behind closed doors with their clients. Temporarily suspending the license of this individual while this criminal case moves forward is the only way to ensure the safety of the public and protect the integrity of the profession.”
The charge against Bittner follows allegations reported to local police by a woman who said she was sexually assaulted during her session with him. After being indicted, Bittner was placed under house arrest with an ankle monitor as he awaits trial.
If proven true, these allegations could lead to suspension or revocation of Bittner’s license due to violations related to sexual misconduct regulations and committing a crime directly connected to his professional activities.
Under terms set out in the interim consent order filed on November 20, 2025, Bittner must stop practicing massage and bodywork therapy in New Jersey immediately pending further Board action. Any violation would be considered unlicensed practice. He is also prohibited from entering his former employer’s premises during business hours when clients may be present.
Deputy Attorney General Michelle Mikelberg represents the State in this matter under Section Chief Doreen A. Hafner within the Professional Boards Prosecution Section at the Division of Law.
Patients who believe they have experienced inappropriate treatment by licensed health care professionals can file complaints with the State Division of Consumer Affairs either online or by calling 973-504-6200 for more information about filing complaints regarding sexual misconduct.
