The Florida Department of Health has revoked the professional license of a Cuban-born massage therapist who was apprehended in early March following accusations of inappropriate contact with a 17-year-old minor at the Trump National Doral Golf Club spa in Miami-Dade County. The suspension of her license took effect on April 23, as confirmed by court documents accessed by Local 10 News. The therapist, identified as 56-year-old Yasmina Ponce Rodríguez, a resident of southwest Miami-Dade, is facing a criminal charge for lewd and lascivious conduct.
Accusations and Victim's Account
The alleged incident occurred on March 1 during a massage appointment with a teenage client, a regular patron of the spa and club member. According to the administrative complaint filed by the state Health Department, Ponce Rodríguez is accused of lifting a sheet covering the teenager's buttocks, seizing his private area, and "manually manipulating" it.
The victim recounted to authorities that he reacted defensively, attempting to push her hands away by slapping them, which led her to stop, as noted in the arrest report by the Doral Police Department. The massage session proceeded, and Rodríguez inquired if the victim was "okay." Due to a language barrier, the two rarely conversed, and no verbal exchange occurred post-incident. Upon concluding the massage, the teenager contacted his girlfriend, who was with his mother. After discussing the event, they decided to notify the police.
The official report also highlighted the prior relationship between the client and the massage therapist, noting that the teenager had experienced "previous sessions" with Ponce Rodríguez.
Arrest and Accused's Defense
Ponce Rodríguez was detained four hours after the alleged misconduct. During her arrest, she denied the allegations, asserting that no such act occurred between her and the victim. Additionally, in court, she claimed ignorance of the victim's minor status, arguing that “minors should not receive massages without family supervision.”
Yasmina Ponce Rodríguez was jailed at TGK and released a few weeks ago after posting a $2,500 bond, while the investigation continues under the appropriate legal jurisdiction. A court hearing for her ongoing criminal case is set for May 21.
Key Questions About the Incident at Trump Doral Club
What led to the suspension of the massage therapist's license?
The Florida Department of Health suspended Yasmina Ponce Rodríguez's license after she was arrested for allegedly engaging in inappropriate physical contact with a 17-year-old during a massage session at Trump National Doral Golf Club.
How did the victim react to the alleged misconduct?
The victim reportedly reacted defensively, attempting to push the therapist's hands away with a slap, which prompted her to cease the alleged misconduct.
What is the accused's defense regarding the incident?
Yasmina Ponce Rodríguez denied the allegations, claiming she was unaware of the victim's age and arguing that minors should not receive unsupervised massages.