On July 21, 2023, Figueroa-Ball invited a woman to a complimentary introductory session at his studio, during which he sexually assaulted her. Thames Valley Police characterized the offense as rape. The case proceeded to Reading Crown Court, where a six-day trial concluded on August 25, 2026, with the jury returning a guilty verdict on the rape charge. Figueroa-Ball was acquitted of a separate sexual assault charge arising from the same encounter.
On October 8, 2026, a judge at Reading Crown Court sentenced Figueroa-Ball — then 44 years old — to eight years' imprisonment, accompanied by a 10-year restraining order and lifetime placement on the Sex Offenders Register. The investigation and trial process spanned more than three years from the date of the offense to sentencing.
Thames Valley Police Response
Thames Valley Police Temporary Detective Sergeant Jennifer Cox of the Harm Reduction Unit spoke publicly following the sentencing. Cox described the offense as traumatic and acknowledged its lasting impact on the victim, praising her for delivering her Victim Personal Statement aloud in open court. "By reading her Personal Statement in open court herself, she demonstrated immense bravery and dignity," Cox stated. "Her courage and determination to see this case through has helped ensure the offender was held accountable for his actions."
Cox also underscored Thames Valley Police's broader commitment to cases of this nature: "Violence against women and girls remains a priority for Thames Valley Police. We are committed to thoroughly investigating offences of this nature, supporting victims, and bringing offenders before the courts." She expressed hope that the conviction would encourage others to come forward: "I hope this conviction reassures others that they will be listened to, taken seriously, and supported throughout the justice process."
