OTTUMWA — Authorities who have arrested an Ottumwa man say he was running a false massage therapist operation that led to sexual abuse, and that he is not a first-time offender.

The Wapello County Sheriff’s Office says that on March 29, they began investigating an alleged sexual assault, and that the investigation led them to discover that Corey Blake West, age 50 of Ottumwa, was portraying himself as a massage therapist to entice victims into his home with the intent of committing sexual assaults.

On Wednesday, a search warrant was executed at West’s residence and authorities say that evidence was found and seized. West was placed under arrest and was transported to the Wapello County Jail, charged with Sex Abuse in the 3rd Degree.

Additionally, West was a registered sex offender at the time of the arrest; he was also charged with Sex Offender Registry Violation. According to a press release, West’s criminal history spans over several decades and several states.

He was released from Wapello County Jail after posting a $12,000 bond.