A VPD investigation has resulted in the arrest and charge of a Vancouver masseuse, following an alleged sex assault last week.

Vancouver Police detectives launched the investigation after a woman in her 30s reported to police that she had been sexually assaulted by a masseuse who came to her home in downtown Vancouver to provide treatment. Alexander Varfolomeev, 33, was identified as a suspect, and was arrested on August 20 for the alleged offence.

Investigators believe Varfolomeev was self-employed, and used an internet app called Soothe to book clients. He then visited them in their homes to provide service.

Varfolomeev was released on bail following his arrest yesterday, with a court order prohibiting him from providing massage or physical therapy to the public.

The VPD encourages anyone who has been the victim of a crime, or who has information about a crime, to call police so an investigation can be completed.