The Anthem

John Shore / The Anthem

Seth Hurwitz, 60, was charged with soliciting prostitution at a massage parlor. Montgomery County Police Department

The owner of several D.C. music venues has been charged in Montgomery County with soliciting prostitution from a massage therapist, according to a Wednesday press release from police.

Seth Hurwitz, 60, was arrested Wednesday at the massage therapist’s place of business, according to the Montgomery County Department of Police. Hurwitz is the co-chair of I.M.P., which operates music venues including the 9:30 Club, The Anthem, and Merriweather Post Pavilion.

In a statement sent to WTOP, Hurwitz’s lawyer declines to comment on the arrest, asking for “consideration” for Hurwitz’s family. “Seth is presumed innocent under our laws,” the statement from Paul Kemp reads. “We look forward to a prompt resolution of this case.”

WTOP also obtained a note Hurwitz sent to his employees, apologizing for “any embarrassment and stress” the incident caused. “We are working to resolve this … I only ask that you don’t pass judgment until that day. But, until then, this is not a matter that concerns our business and please soldier on as usual,” the note reads.

Authorities have withheld the massage therapist’s name as well as the name of her business to protect her identity.

Police said that according to the victim, Hurwitz called the victim’s business on August 15 and scheduled an appointment. Later that day, per police, Hurwitz arrived for his appointment, and made “inappropriate sexual motions,” telling the victim she would receive a bigger tip if she performed sexual acts. He also asked the victim twice to conduct a massage for him at his home, which the victim declined. Police said she ended the massage early due to his “increasing inappropriate sexual behavior.” The victim also noted that Hurwitz had left a roll of cash laying on the floor in plain view in the massage room, per police.

Hurwitz texted and called the victim the next day, police say, again asking her to come to his home. While detectives were present, the victim spoke on the phone and texted with Hurwitz, during which time he agreed to return to her business and pay cash in exchange for sexual favors.

Hurwitz was arrested when he arrived for his appointment on Wednesday and charged with solicitation for prostitution. Police say they believe there may be other victims, based on comments Hurwitz made to the victim in this case “about having similar arrangements with other women.”

Hurwitz was released Wednesday on a $5,000 bond. Given statements made by the victim, police believe the suspect may have had similar arrangements with other women and there may be more victims. Authorities are asking people with any additional information to call 240-773-5958.

This story has been updated with a statement from Hurwitz’s lawyer and with his note to employees.