CHAPEL HILL — The Chatham County Sheriff’s Office is currently investigating allegations of sexual assault occurring at 1251 The Preserve Trail, Chapel Hill. Investigators say property owner Albert Karali Jr., 62, has been operating a personal business out of his home address for years. Two of Karali’s former clients have now come forward to report being sexually victimized by Karali at his residence between 2014 and 2021.
The Sheriff’s Office has since charged Karali with two counts of felony 2nd degree forcible sex offense, two counts of sexual battery, and two counts of practicing massage therapy without a license. However, the investigation remains ongoing as authorities attempt to gather more details about Karali’s business and his interactions with clients.
“At this time, we cannot rule out the existence of other victims,” says Sheriff’s Office Lieutenant Sara Pack. “We encourage anyone with information about Karali or his alleged sexual misconduct to contact investigators immediately. If you or someone you know has been a victim of sexual abuse or assault, we implore you to call 919-542-2911 to speak with an investigator and file a report as soon as possible.”
Karali was booked into the Chatham County Detention Center under a $60,000 secured bond ahead of his scheduled court appearance in Chatham County District Court in Pittsboro on Nov. 17.