Woman Sues Gym After 2023 Assault by Personal Trainer

UPDATE: A woman is taking urgent legal action against her attacker and Goodlife Fitness Centres Inc. following a brutal sexual assault that occurred at a Winnipeg gym in December 2023. The lawsuit, filed this month in the Manitoba Court of King’s Bench, names Joseph Patrick Luna, a former personal trainer, as the perpetrator.

The lawsuit details the horrific events of December 16, 2023, when Luna, now in his late 20s, assaulted the woman during a scheduled personal training session at the Goodlife Fitness location on Regent Avenue West. According to court documents, after a brief warm-up, Luna coerced the woman into a private consultation room. He then made inappropriate sexual advances, asking if he could touch her inappropriately, to which she repeatedly declined.

In a shocking escalation, Luna locked the door and physically assaulted her, placing her in a chokehold while attempting to grope her. The victim managed to escape and promptly reported the incident to the Winnipeg police, who charged Luna shortly thereafter. In June, he was sentenced to 18 months in jail for his actions.

The lawsuit claims that Luna not only owes damages for the assault but also that Goodlife Fitness breached its duty of care to the plaintiff. The woman argues that the gym failed to properly screen and supervise its employees, creating an environment where such criminal behavior could occur.

“(The plaintiff) says that as a result of the negligence of Goodlife, she suffered loss, injury, and damages and continues to suffer physical, emotional, mental, and psychological harm,” the lawsuit states. The victim is seeking compensation for pain and suffering, lost income, and ongoing medical expenses, although a specific monetary amount has not been disclosed.

This case raises significant concerns about safety protocols in gyms and the responsibility of fitness organizations to protect their clients. The woman has reported ongoing psychological distress and has indicated the need for continuous therapy, impacting her ability to work and pursue her education.

As of now, both Luna and Goodlife have not publicly responded to the lawsuit. The outcome of this case could have broader implications for fitness centers across Canada regarding their liability in similar situations.

Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops.