The police department received a call from the woman on Jan. 27, according to San Jose Sgt. Craig Blank. She told the police that when she visited Spiritual Touch on Jan. 17 to get a massage from Sharkey, 54, he touched her inappropriately, according to Blank. It was her second appointment. She told police that during her prior visit in December 2004 there were no improprieties.

After the woman filed the complaint, the Santa Clara County District Attorney's office issued a $10,000 misdemeanor warrant for Sharkey's arrest. On Jan. 31, police investigators took Sharkey into custody, Blank said.

According to authorities, Sharkey, whose business is located at 1275 Lincoln Ave., Ste. 6, was operating without a massage therapist license, according to Blank. To work as a massage therapist in San Jose, individuals must obtain a permit through the police department.

Sharkey acknowledges that he was operating his business without a police permit, but said he had obtained a license from the Body Therapy Center in Palo Alto and had undergone the required 125 hours of massage training as well as an additional 125 hours of clinical deep tissue massage training.

"Apparently some person felt that they were touched in an inappropriate way," he said. "I respect all my clients a great deal. If they felt that way, I'd acknowledge their feelings. I wish they had communicated that more clearly and sooner. I'm not denying anyone's feelings. I'm sorry they felt that way."

Blank also added that people who are interested in receiving a massage should make sure their therapist has the necessary credentials.

"The best thing to do is ask what qualifications and training the person has and ask to see documentation," Blank said. "This should be displayed in their work area."

Anyone who has information that could be helpful to this case can contact Sgt. Craig Blank or Det. Michael Carlson at 408.277.4102.