SOUTHFIELD — The Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) served an order suspending the massage therapist license belonging to Carl Ellis of Southfield for allegations of inappropriate sexual contact with two clients.

“This case was handled collaboratively by LARA and the Department of the Attorney General and driven by consumer complaints against the licensee,” said LARA Director Orlene Hawks. “We rely on consumer complaints to launch investigations into licensed professionals who do not align with the highest standards of conduct of their profession.”

In conjunction with the Department of the Attorney General, LARA also served Ellis with an accompanying administrative complaint that alleges the nature of the inappropriate sexual contact with two patients.

“I am grateful for the continued partnership between our office and LARA that allows us to take swift and decisive actions to protect the public from potential harm,” Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel said. “We take all allegations of inappropriate sexual contact seriously and will work to ensure those who abuse their powers as licensed professionals are held accountable.”

The Michigan Public Health Code provides for summary suspension of licenses when the public health, safety, or welfare requires emergency action.

An order of summary suspension is a temporary measure to protect the public and not a final determination that a licensee has violated the Public Health Code.

LARA encourages all concerned residents, patients, parents and peers to file complaints against licensed health professionals who may allegedly be risking public health, safety or welfare.