Beware of predators who take appointments

WARNING: This story contains details that may disturb some readers. Leonard Krekic, who worked in Penticton and other cities in B.C., was found to have committed professional misconduct and unprofessional conduct while treating multiple female patients between 2012 and 2019 by a disciplinary panel on Aug. 5. On Dec. 21, the College of Massage Therapists of B.C. rendered their decision on what Krekic’s punishment would be. That punishment will be a ban from registering with the College to work as a massage therapist until January 1, 2048, and a fine and costs totalling $105,952.51. Six different former clients of Krekic had filed allegations against him with the College, beginning with an allegation filed in 2019. “This is one of the most serious cases to ever come before the Discipline Committee due to the nature and gravity of multiple instances of misconduct involving many different patients extending over a period of years,” reads part of the Aug 5 decision. “Sexual misconduct is a particularly serious form of misconduct because it involves a breach of trust and abuse of patients. The duration and frequency of Mr. Krekic’s conduct was serious, and its impact on the complainants was profound.” Krekic lived or worked in White Rock, Surrey and Penticton over the time where he treated the patients, though only the last patient is identified as having been treated specifically in Penticton. The decision stressed sexual touching of patients will not be tolerated and must be denounced. “Where this occurs, registrants of CMTBC will be met with the most serious penalties available,” the college stated. If you or someone you know is a victim of sexual assault, help is available. In an emergency, call 9-1-1 In a crisis, call 1-800-563-0808 To report a person under 19 who needs protection to the Ministry of Children and Family Development, call 310-1234 (no area code required)