Family Physician Accused of Operating Illicit Massage Business in Freeport Shopping Center
Freeport and Brunswick police departments have arrested Dr. Peter O’Donnell, 68, following an extensive joint investigation into alleged sex trafficking operations at A. Envy Massage in Freeport, Maine. The Yarmouth family physician faces charges of sex trafficking after police executed search warrants at both his medical practice and the massage business on November 7, 2024. Investigators have identified two suspected victims and allege O’Donnell recruited and employed individuals to perform sexual services for clients. The doctor has been released on bail and is scheduled to appear in court in January 2025.
5 Key Points
- Law enforcement conducted raids at two locations – a family medical practice in Yarmouth and A. Envy Massage in Freeport
- Police identified two suspected victims during their investigation
- Dr. O’Donnell allegedly used the massage parlor as a front for prostitution operations
- The 68-year-old physician is accused of personally recruiting individuals for sexual services
- The case resulted from a collaborative investigation between the Freeport and Brunswick police departments
Police Execute Search Warrants at Two Locations
The Freeport and Brunswick Police Departments’ Criminal Investigation Divisions served search warrants at Dr. O’Donnell’s family medical practice in Yarmouth and A. Envy Massage in Freeport on November 7. Police arrested O’Donnell on November 8 and charged him with sex trafficking. A local business owner at the Freeport shopping center witnessed activity at the massage parlor and reported seeing customers entering and exiting the business regularly before the raid.
Community Members Voice Concerns Over Human Trafficking
“It’s so sad,” said Christa Johnson, a representative of Human Trafficking Must End, while shopping near the former massage parlor. “And we have to do something about it. Because I think it’s very challenging to get out, once you’re in that situation.” In a separate interview, local resident Crystal Esculano expressed her concerns: “I think it’s scary, especially from a female’s point of view. I think it definitely leaves a big dent on the rest of their lives.”
Police Departments Seek Additional Witnesses
Dr. O’Donnell posted bail following his arrest and faces his first court appearance in January 2025. The Freeport and Brunswick Police Departments ask anyone with information about O’Donnell or activities at either business location to contact their criminal investigation divisions. Investigators have identified two victims and continue to gather evidence about the alleged trafficking operation at both the medical practice and massage business locations.
FAQ
Q: What are my options if I or a loved one has experienced sex trafficking or abuse?
A: If you or someone close to you has been impacted by sex trafficking or abuse, you may have options for legal action. Click here to connect with our team for a free, confidential review to learn about your rights and potential next steps.
Q: What specific charges does Dr. O’Donnell face?
A: Dr. O’Donnell faces sex trafficking charges following his arrest on November 8, 2024. The source material specifies only the sex trafficking charge at this time.
Q: Where were the alleged trafficking activities taking place?
A: Police identified two locations: Dr. O’Donnell’s family medical practice in Yarmouth and A. Envy Massage in Freeport, which investigators say served as a front for prostitution.
Q: How many victims have been identified?
A: Police have identified two suspected victims of human trafficking through their investigation. The exact circumstances of their involvement have not been publicly disclosed.
Q: What was the scope of the police investigation?
A: The case resulted from a joint investigation between the Freeport and Brunswick Police Departments, culminating in search warrants being served at both business locations on November 7, 2024.
Q: What should people do if they have information about this case?
A: Anyone with information about Dr. O’Donnell or related activities should contact the Freeport or Brunswick criminal investigation divisions.
Q: What is Dr. O’Donnell’s current status?
A: Dr. O’Donnell has been released on bail and is scheduled to appear in court in January 2025. As of November 8, his medical practice and the massage business were closed.
Citations
Rogers, Brad (November 10, 2024). ‘It’s horrific:’ Community shocked as Yarmouth doctor charged with sex trafficking. WGME News. https://wgme.com/news/local/its-horrific-community-shocked-as-yarmouth-doctor-charged-with-sex-trafficking-illegal-massage-parlor
