Man Arrested for Alleged Locker Room Assaults at Massachusetts Planet Fitness

A Cambridge man has been arrested and charged with sexually assaulting two women in the women's locker room at a Massachusetts Planet Fitness on Thursday morning. Authorities identified the suspect as Laquan Holland, 40.

Cambridge Police Department officials stated that Holland entered the Planet Fitness on Massachusetts Avenue around 9 a.m. He has been charged with two counts of assault to rape, two counts of indecent assault and battery on a person over 14, and one count each of kidnapping and witness intimidation. Holland was arraigned in Cambridge District Court on October 2, where a not guilty plea was entered on his behalf. He is being held pending a hearing scheduled for October 16.

According to prosecutors, police interviewed both victims at the gym. The first woman reported that Holland repeatedly struck her, touched her inappropriately without consent, partially removed her clothing, and restrained her. The second woman stated she heard the first victim ask for help and witnessed both individuals partially nude before attempting to intervene. She also reported that Holland touched her inappropriately and directed her to touch him.

Upon arrival at the scene, first responders provided aid to one of the victims, who was transported to the hospital for evaluation. Holland was arrested at the gym.

The Planet Fitness is located on the ground floor of Lesley University Hall, which also houses other private businesses accessible to the public. A Lesley University spokesperson confirmed that the incident was a private business matter and did not involve any university students or staff. The university stated that its public safety department works with the Cambridge Police Department to support a safe environment around its buildings.

A statement from Planet Fitness indicated that the individual's membership has been canceled and the company is cooperating with law enforcement. "Planet Fitness is committed to providing a safe environment for all," the statement read.

Cambridge Police Department records show that Holland was previously arrested on August 25 for failing to register as a sex offender. It remains unclear if Holland has retained legal counsel.