Adrian Beau Cardinal: Massage therapist accused of indecent assault uncovered after hiding face from media

A massage therapist and model who “always had a passion for being in front of the camera” has used a suit jacket to cover his face from news crews after indicating he would plead guilty to indecent assault. Adrian Beau Cardinal, 28, faced Joondalup Magistrates Court on Monday after he was charged with indecently assaulting a female client during a massage appointment in May. Sex assault squad detectives allege he indecently assaulted the woman while he was working as a qualified massage therapist at a business in the Joondalup area. The business is understood to be in Edgewater. Mr Cardinal, from Scarborough, was charged by detectives in early October. During his latest court appearance on Monday, Mr Cardinal’s lawyer requested the matter be heard in the family domestic violence court due to his client’s “close relationship” with the victim and to facilitate a behaviour assessment. His lawyer then argued that relationship was close because they had “three or four sessions” together. But Magistrate Lynette Dias said it didn’t appear to be family violence related, and adjourned the case until January 19 in order for his lawyer to seek further advice on the potential transfer to the family violence court. Mr Cardinal’s lawyer said his client intends to plead guilty at his next appearance. His lawyer said he intended to seek a fine or spent conviction for his client, with Mr Cardinal having no prior record. Outside court, Mr Cardinal used his suit jacket he was previously wearing to cover his face from waiting media. The jacket obstructed his vision and caused him to walk aimlessly around the car park before he eventually made his way to a waiting car. He did not verbally respond to questions but nodded underneath his jacket when asked if he wanted to apologise to the victim. Mr Cardinal will appear in court on January 19 to enter a plea. The 28-year-old has an extensive modelling history and was described in an online model profile as having studied “an extensive degree in remedial massage therapy and work as a therapist helping those with chronic pain and muscle injuries”. “In addition to his career as a remedial therapist, Adrian always had a passion for being in front of the camera,” the online profile said. “Ever since he was young recreating movie scenes and making home movies the passion for showing off his presence was there.” WA Police said they were continuing to investigate any similar alleged incidents and urge anyone with information to contact crime stoppers on 1800 333 000, online here or through the anonymous Safe2Say platform.