Orchid Massage LLC and manager Yizhen Qu face lawsuits alleging unwanted touching during massages at Branson Landing. Two women claim Yang Li, an unlicensed worker, inappropriately touched them despite objections. The petitions, filed under initials A.P. and T.P., accuse the business of negligence for hiring Li without background checks, violating Missouri licensing laws. Li, previously convicted of second-degree sodomy, was sentenced to 10 years in prison.

The lawsuits assert Orchid Massage and Qu allowed Li to work despite prior complaints. State regulations require licensed therapists, and the plaintiffs suffered PTSD, bodily pain, and humiliation. Both cases demand jury trials and unspecified damages. Orchid Massage declined comment when contacted.

Missouri law mandates massage therapists hold valid licenses, and businesses must verify credentials. Li’s lack of licensure and criminal history raises questions about Orchid’s hiring practices. The cases highlight risks of unregulated staffing in wellness industries.

These lawsuits could set precedents for liability in spa operations. With Li’s conviction and alleged misconduct, Orchid Massage faces reputational and financial risks. The rulings may impact how similar businesses screen employees and comply with state regulations.