Report: Councilman Jose Huizar Accused Of Groping Massage Therapist

LOS ANGELES (CBSLA.com) — Los Angeles City Councilman Jose Huizar Friday faced allegations that he groped a massage therapist back in 2005, the Los Angeles Times reported.

The alleged assault took place at the Burke Williams spa in Old Pasadena on April 9, 2005, when Huizar, who was serving as president of the LA school board, was running for City Council, the Pasadena Police Department said.

The massage therapist accused the councilman of grabbing her leg, arm and breast during the treatment, the Times said.

The woman later decided she didn't want to proceed with the complaint, which was initially investigated as a possible misdemeanor sexual battery, PPD told the paper.

Charges were never filed by the District Attorney's Office.

"The council member recalls being contacted about an investigation more than eight years ago. There was no follow-up with him," Huizar's press secretary, Rick Coca, said in a statement.

In October, Huizar's former deputy chief of staff filed a lawsuit, accusing him of discrimination, harassment and retaliation.

Francine Godoy said she was subjected to sexual harassment and retaliation when she refused Huizar's advances.

The councilman later acknowledge a consensual relationship with the woman, but denied the allegations.

RELATED: Ex-Staffer Accuses LA City Councilman Jose Huizar Of Sexual Harassment

(©2013 CBS Local Media, a division of CBS Radio Inc. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. Wire services contributed to this report.)