A Somerville man is facing charges after allegedly posing as a chiropractor and assaulting two women at his home-based business, authorities said. Jose Mendez, 60, has been accused of indecent assault and battery, indecent exposure, and operating without a chiropractic license, according to statements from Middlesex District Attorney Marian Ryan. Reports by Boston 25 News describe Mendez as providing services under the false guise of being a licensed chiropractor.
Mendez was arraigned in Somerville District Court on April 17, where bail was set at $5,500. The terms of his bail require him to not only stay away from the alleged victims but to also cease practicing any form of chiropractic care. The District Attorney's office has stated that Mendez's alleged offenses occurred while he was treating two separate women, having inappropriately touched both and exposed himself to one. Furthermore, an ongoing investigation seeks to definitively determine the extent of Mendez's unlicensed practice, which he apparently ran from his Cross Street home, mainly through referrals and word of mouth. Mendez is expected to reappear in court come May 14, as reported by NBC Boston.
Details of the case remain in flux as authorities continue to uncover the full scope of the unlicensed business. Somerville Police are actively calling for anyone with information pertaining to Mendez or his operations to come forward. The allegation that Mendez was masquerading as a health professional touches on a deeper concern within the community towards the sanctity of trust placed in such individuals.
