News and Opinion from Sisters, Oregon

Sisters area business owner arrested on sex abuse charge

Mike Boyle of Sisters was arrested on Wednesday, June 30, on charges of harassment, sex abuse, and performing illegal massage.

According to the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office, deputies with the City of Sisters and Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office detectives served a search warrant at Hop in the Spa in the City of Sisters at about 9:48 p.m. on June 30. The search warrant was served after a long-term investigation into the business and its owner, Michael Boyle. Boyle was reported to be performing massages in the business without a license to do so. One adult female reported that she was a victim of Sexual Abuse III and harassment while at the spa.

Deputies contacted Boyle at Hop in the Spa and placed him under arrest on charges of practicing massage without a license (three counts), Sex Abuse III (one count), and harassment (one count). Under Oregon law, third-degree sex abuse is a Class A misdemeanor involving unwanted sexual contact.

Through the investigation, investigators learned Boyle had performed massages on several women without a proper license. Investigators believe there are other citizens who may have received a massage from Boyle in the past. Those citizens are encouraged to contact Deputy Michael Hudson at 541-693-6911 and reference case 21-30013.

Boyle was later lodged at the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office Jail.

Boyle sent an email to The Nugget on July 4, stating that he would “be holding a press conference Tuesday [July 6] regarding the false charges leveled by the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office and district attorney.” (UPDATE: The press conference did not occur).

Hop in the Spa opened in 2016, offering what was purported to be “a relaxing and healthful soak in a cedar tub infused with hops and essential oils — in addition to massage and a steam room.”

 

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