Manhattan Beach Therapist Faces Accusations of Inappropriate Recordings in Restroom, Federal Authorities Report
Manhattan Beach Therapist Faces Federal Charges for Alleged Child Exploitation
LOS ANGELES COUNTY, Calif. – A therapist from Manhattan Beach has been charged with federal child pornography offenses following allegations that he secretly recorded young girls in a bathroom at his clinic.
Federal prosecutors report that Joseph Toews, 30, is accused of capturing at least 11 videos involving eight girls, aged between 8 and 12 years. The investigation suggests there may be additional victims.
According to a recently unsealed federal complaint, Toews purportedly concealed cameras inside a bathroom at the Neuro Wellness Spa on Sepulveda Boulevard, where he was employed as an associate marriage and family therapist. Prosecutors indicate that some of the alleged victims may have been his patients.
“That stall that was used for these videos was in his place of work, where he worked in therapy,” stated Clifford Mpare, an assistant U.S. attorney with the Central District of California.
Investigators located the recordings during a raid conducted by the FBI just weeks ago. As a result of their efforts, they recovered at least 11 videos showing minors in compromising situations. Mpare noted, “FBI and their diligent searching were able to find at least 11 different videos of eight different young children in the bathroom stall with various portions of themselves exposed or able to be seen.”
Witnesses in the building expressed shock upon learning of the allegations. Tabitha Fowler, an employee, recounted observing law enforcement at the scene: “I saw about 10 different officers. They brought in a dog. I had no idea what was going on.”
In addition to the video recordings, federal prosecutors allege that Toews purchased child sexual abuse material via dark web platforms using Bitcoin. Forensic analysis of his electronics reportedly revealed further explicit videos involving minors.
Mpare emphasized the breach of trust inherent in Toews’s actions: “Your therapist is one of the people you hope to confide in more than almost anyone. To use that position to exploit young children for personal gain is just horrific.”
Reactions from those familiar with Toews varied, with many expressing deep concern about the allegations. One visitor described the situation as "very, very disgusting," while another stated, “I hope he goes to prison for what he did.”
Toews is expected to formally plead guilty in the coming weeks and could face a maximum sentence of up to 30 years in federal prison.
